A Brit and A Southerner

Chur to Tirano – Enjoy Amazing Scenery on the Bernina Express

Switzerland

Chris Boothman

Jan 7, 2019

Chur to Tirano – Enjoy Amazing Scenery on the Bernina Express

Switzerland is blessed to have breathtaking scenery everywhere you look. Whether you are crossing the spectacular Golden Pass across the Swiss Alps or simply enjoying the views from the shores of Lake Lucerne, it’s no surprise that visitors flock here from all corners of the globe to admire this beautiful country. During our recent visit to Switzerland, we believe we have taken the beauty of this nation to the next level when we traveled on the train from Chur to Tirano, a small town in Northern Italy. Welcome to the Bernina Express!

Having spent quite some time exploring the beauty of Switzerland’s natural landscapes, we really didn’t think that this journey in the south-east corner of this country could better anything we had previously experienced. It goes without saying the Bernina Express route is renowned as one of the most prestigious train journeys not only in Europe but anywhere in the world. We can 100% attest that this journey delivers way more than you could ever imagine.

The beauty of traveling through Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes by train is that for the most part, you are moving at a relatively slow speed which enables you to appreciate everything you see around you. We hope that after reading this post and admiring what we consider to be some of the best photographs we have ever had the privilege of taking, you will be inspired to take a trip on the Bernina Express.

Chur to Tirano – Eurail Pass

One of the huge benefits of purchasing a Eurail Pass (regardless of whether it’s a one country, Select or Global Pass) is that you have the opportunity to experience these amazing train routes that perhaps otherwise you wouldn’t think about exploring.

Simply hop on the train and enjoy this breathtaking route on the Bernina Express. No reservations are needed for this journey unlike some other iconic routes across Europe and I think this alone makes this one of the best options for those looking at taking the best train journeys on the continent.

For those of you opting to purchase a Eurail pass, you may be wondering how much money you can save. Just to give you an idea of approximate ticket prices for the Bernina Express, at the time of publication, a second-class ticket would cost CHF 63 ($64) and a first-class ticket (for those of you who prefer to travel in luxury and if you read our post on Eurail first class travel, I can certainly understand why) will cost CHF 111 ($113).

Bernina Express Route

If you choose to embark on the Bernina Express, we recommend breaking this route into a couple of segments. This is exactly what we did during our recent adventure, by taking the train from Chur to St. Moritz, and then St. Moritz to Tirano. Not only do you get to experience two epic train journeys but you can also spend some time in one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine towns.

We will take a look at the two routes in a little more detail later but if you are thinking about admiring those glistening glaciers and appreciating a myriad of alpine villages, the train journey along the Bernina Express will not leave you disappointed.

There are not many train journeys around the world that offers those onboard the opportunity to admire such magical scenery while negotiating 55 tunnels and 196 bridges! It’s a pretty incredible experience and honestly, words and pictures will never do this train ride enough justice.

Here are the approximate train ride journeys on the two “legs” of the Bernina Express.

Chur to St. Moritz – Approximately 2 Hours
St. Moritz to Tirano – Approximately 2 Hours

As you can see, be prepared to allocate at least 4 hours to experience the Bernina Express but the reality is that you will need more time if you follow our itinerary given that you will spend a few hours in St. Moritz.

Crossing the beautiful canton of Graubünden, the Bernina Express is an unforgettable experience offering high alpine scenery on the Bernina Pass and spectacular natural beauty on the lower Poschiavo valley en route to Tirano. Let’s take a look at some of the experiences you can expect on the two legs of this journey, along with a few reasons why St. Moritz is worth exploring for a few hours.

Chur to St. Moritz

After taking an early morning train from Basel via Zurich, we boarded the train in Chur for the first leg of the Bernina Express. The first few minutes of this journey lead you outside of the town and honestly, nothing in the early part of this train ride will prepare you for what is to come later on.

It’s only when you start climbing after passing through the villages of Reichenau, Thusis and Tiefencastel that you start realizing exactly why the Bernina Express is such an incredible train journey. As you meander through the Domleschg valley known for historic ruins and castles, you cannot help but start admiring the breathtaking scenery around you.

As you pass over the curved Landwasser viaduct, one of those iconic spots where if you are lucky, you can capture a picture of the front of the train entering the tunnel, you are immediately transformed into a winter wonderland.

For the first hour of the journey from Chur, we experienced nothing in terms of snow but as we started to climb sharply, the snowfall started to appear and it honestly made the experience that much more exhilarating.

At an elevation of 1,800 meters (5,910) feet, you arrive in the alpine town of St. Moritz, iconically known as hosting the Winter Olympics on multiple occasions.

Although you may not want to leave the train after such an amazing journey, this is a good place to get out and stretch your legs for a few hours and grab a bite to eat before enjoying what we consider to be an even more spectacular second leg of the route to Tirano.

Olympic Town of St. Moritz

When you think about the Winter Olympics and historic, landmark destinations that have hosted this global competition, there are not many places more infamous than the alpine town of St. Moritz in the heart of Switzerland.

After hosting the Winter Olympics in both 1928 and 1948, it’s no surprise that St. Moritz is a town that has plenty of history surrounding it. Whether it’s the historic Olympic Stadium that is unlike the more traditional stadia that we associate with Olympic Games, or perhaps the iconic ski slopes that many of the world’s leading skiers have ejoyed, St. Moritz is a town that is well worth exploring.

In terms of iconic events, the adrenaline-fuelled bobsleigh run is perhaps the most famous that has been held in St. Moritz. Officially opened in 1904, the Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerin is the world’s oldest bobsleigh track. Another intriguing fact about this track is that it’s the only natural ice track in the world!

The Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina is the world’s only natural ice bob run and also the oldest bobrun still in operation. (My Switzerland)

For those of you that are not keen on hopping on this iconic track, perhaps high tea at the luxurious Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is more inline with your taste. When you think about top of the range luxury hotels, there are not many in Switzerland that are more impressive than this hotel.

Whether you are admiring this gorgeous structure from the outside or you are fortunate enough to stay here, along with many global celebrities that choose to spend a few days here, it’s definitely a hotel that aligns with everything else that St. Moritz offers.

Take a stroll along the main street into the heart of St. Moritz and glance over at the storefronts available here…it’s no surprise that only the cream of the crop in terms of fashion brands can be found here. Don’t expect to find too many bargain stores, rather the likes of Harry Winston, Cartier and Botttega Veneta can be found here.

Although our budget didn’t allow for us to spend too much time wandering around these high-profile shops, we did head back down to St. Moritz train station to enjoy a delicious sandwich and coffee at Caffè Spettacolo before hopping back on the train for the next part of the journey.

St. Moritz to Tirano

If you thought the first half of the Bernina Express was memorable, just wait until you have boarded in St. Moritz and started the two hour journey to the northern Italian town of Tirano. The worst part of this journey is that it lasts only two hours because after experiencing this route, you will be longing for much more.

Shortly after leaving St. Moritz, the train winds its way through the alpine valleys and passes the town of Pontresina before reaching the highest peaks of the canton of Graubünden. The Lago Bianco (also known as “White Lake” will appear) but it’s those towering alpine peaks that you won’t be able to take your eyes off.

On a clear day, this is some of the most breathtaking scenery that we have experienced anywhere in the world. A pretty bold statement to make but it really is that awe-inspiring.

I don’t think you will be surprised to hear that we were pretty trigger happy with our camera during this part of the journey. The beauty of traveling via first-class Eurail passes is that you can pick a carriage with windows that open, ensuring that your pictures will be crystal clear and not having to deal with the potential glare of the windows.

The small station of Ospizio Bernina may not seem like much but this is one of the iconic stops on the Bernina Express given that it marks the highest point of the route, at 2253 meters above sea level.

If you are adventurous enough and don’t mind waiting a couple of hours for the next train, this is a great area to get out and do some hiking. It’s pretty quiet up here but the solitude and calmness is part of what makes the Swiss Alps so magical.

What goes up has to come down but don’t worry, the journey to Tirano is equally awesome. After passing the station of Alp Grüm, offering an amazing view of the Palü glacier, the train winds through the Poschiavo valley as it makes its way into Italian country.

Many of the villages that you pass through have a very Italian feel to them, despite still being in Switzerland. It’s no surprise to hear that many of these hamlets, such as Poschiavo itself, are predominantly Italian speaking.

The Bernina Express cruises deeper into the Poschiavo valley, passing by Lago di Poschiavo (Lake Poschiavo) before crossing the Swiss-Italian border and into the town of Tirano.

Summary

We have been incredibly fortunate to experience some of the best train rides across Europe in recent years but I am going to go out on a limb and say that the Bernina Express is definitely our favorite journey so far. Not only do you experience breathtaking scenery but you also enjoy a variety of unique landscapes as you climb to the highest point on the route before heading back into the Poschiavo valley.

Whether you are an avid train aficionado that loves to explore using this method of transportation or simply prefer to hop on a plane and get from place A to B in the quickest time possible, this is a route that you cannot help but fall in love with.

From the history of St. Moritz to the beauty of the White Lake, the Bernina Express is a magical experience that will long live in your memory. We are already excited about trying to plan a return trip to Switzerland and Italy just to recreate the Bernina Express experience!

Which train journey around the world have you experienced that has left you speechless?

2018 Review – How to Transform Tragedy into Happiness

Personal Reflections

Dec 31, 2018

2018 Review – How to Transform Tragedy into Happiness

Every year since we started our blog we have put together a year end post reviewing our travels over the last 12 months. This year is no different in that respect but unfortunately, this is the hardest post I have ever had to write given the consequences of what has happened in the last couple of months. 2018 has been the ultimate rollercoaster of a year in so many respects, with many highs mixed with several low points that really tests your personality.

Rather than a typical year end review that looks back at a chronological reflection on our travels, I want to focus on more “reflective” and “personal” post that I hope allows you to get a better insight into what 2018 has been like for us.

A Year Full of Tragedy

Life can be so cruel sometimes. We always hear that human life is so precious and we should never take it for granted but as hard as we all try, the reality is that sometimes we do. It’s only in times of tragic heartbreak that reality truly sets in and we begin to notice just how fragile we are and how very little time we have on this planet.

2018 has been a year full of tragedy on a personal scale. Both Heather and I have suffered the loss of several members of our families in what has turned out to be a horrendous year of people passing away. At the beginning of the year, Heather and I were in Iceland only to find out on our flight home that Heather’s grandma had passed away. Only a couple of months later, I received a call from Heather’s mother on our way back from England to say that her other grandma had passed away…so cruel.

It is not the length of life but depth of life (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

Only a few weeks into 2018 and Heather had lost both of her grandmothers and as you can imagine, it was pretty tough for both of us to take. Even if it’s not a direct member of your family, you become close to them and it hits you almost as hard, particularly when you are trying to be there for the person that is immediately impacted.

Just as we thought things were starting to get back to normal, Heather and I headed out to San Jose to the home of Google for our first Mediavine conference. The “Googleplex” is awesome, as was meeting some awesome folks at this conference. For those of you unaware of Mediavine, any of the ads (I know they can be annoying folks!) that you see on our website are driven there through Mediavine. During the last night at the conference, we were sat having dinner and I received a phone call from England saying that my grandad had passed away.

It’s only when you hear the news that someone you have been incredibly close to and who you have looked up to for so long, that it really hits home…those are NOT the types of phone calls any of us enjoys! This is also a time that you realize it’s not ideal living the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s not so much the time difference or even length of time to reach the UK, rather it’s the cost associated with trying to book a last minute flight. Throw into the mix the fact our local airport is Memphis, Tennessee and well, it’s very, VERY expensive!

We FINALLY found a flight that left in the next few days out of Nashville and arrived in London. A four hour drive from Arkansas to Nashville, followed by flights to Newark, Toronto and finally London saw us arrive back in the UK. We then had to rent a car and drive another four hours to reach my parents home in North-West England.

Tragedy of Tragedies

By April, we had lost three grandparents between us and we honestly didn’t think that 2018 could get any worse. Thanks to all our amazing followers around the world (yes, you reading this post means that you fit into this category, so THANK YOU!!), we continued to travel the world and had many amazing experiences that helped us get through these tragic events.

The middle part of 2018 saw us head back to the UK again to celebrate July 4th by camping in Devon with my parents. We had perfect weather and it was an amazing experience checking out the best things to do in South Devon. Ironically, this would turn out to be an even bigger memory that I will always cherish…why? Because this was the last time that I was able to spend time with my mother!

Fast forwarding the clock to late October…11:15AM to be exact on October 30th when I received a call from an unknown phone number. Honestly, I rarely answer my phone if I don’t recognize the number but there was something about the number, perhaps because it had a UK dialing code, that made me pick up the phone. The person at the other end indicated that my dad was trying to get hold of me….the next words I heard was from him hysterically letting me know that my mum had passed away!

For the next few minutes, everything suddenly stopped in my life. I honestly had no idea what to say, what to think, what to feel. A grandparent passing away at 94 years old is one thing…but losing your mother who was only 70 and so suddenly is something you can NEVER prepare for.

The most painful goodbyes are the one that are never said and never explained.

My mum has always been a huge influence in my life. I know I am so much like her in many respects and I cannot thank her enough for everything she has done. She has taught me independence and she has taught me to how to pursue and reach my goals.

She LOVED reading every one of our posts and honestly, for someone that only started using a computer a few years ago, I really believe that A Brit & A Southerner and all accompanying social networks was one of the main inspirations for taking an interest in learning technology.

The loss of a mother can never be replaced, but the love of a mother can never be lost (kelly flannery)

Always a Silver Lining

During my mother’s funeral (and my grandad’s), I spoke a few words to pay my respects and also share a few thoughts on what both individuals meant to me and how they shaped my life. Death is an awful event for those that have to grieve but I prefer to look at this in a positive sense and reflect on the many amazing memories you had with the person.

I made a comment that I went out to America in 2006 to pursue my goal of being a professional golfer and although that dream didn’t materialize, there was the “silver lining” that I met Heather in 2008 and the rest is history. There were a few smiles when I made this comment but ultimately it’s how I like to reflect on things. When something negative or bad happens or something simply doesn’t go your way, you always have to find a positive.

Three days after we flew back to the States, we were supposed to fly back to Europe again on an epic adventure around the continent with our Eurail train passes. We had been planning this trip for quite some time, booked several flights, hotels and trains but with everything that had just happened, you can imagine how close we were to canceling that trip.

We were mentally and physically exhausted and only a few hours prior to boarding our first flight from Memphis to Chicago did we make a final decision. Our decision to travel back to Europe and take this adventure of a lifetime was a decision we didn’t take lightly but it was something that I know my mum would have wanted us to do.

Every experience we had in Portugal, Switzerland, Italy and Greece, I reflected on what my mum would have thought and I know that should would have loved to experience it and see pictures from our travels.

This turned out to be an amazing trip and I am sure many of you followed this on social media. We have A LOT of content that we will be putting together in early 2019 from this trip, so be sure to keep checking out our website for more inspiration next year.

Our First House

If you have been following us in 2018, you will also know that we achieved another milestone in July – we purchased our first home! This was another huge event for us, not only because we had been renting for eight years but because we purchased a brand new property that wasn’t finished until the day we moved in (technically, it wasn’t finished until after but the builder has been awesome at keeping to his word and the 12-month home warranty we have).

Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love brought together under one roof (nate berkus)

We started a new section on our website about Weekends at Home, and in 2019 we are excited about putting more content on this part of the site. We really want to drive home the fact that anyone can still travel the world. Many people have said to us since we purchased the house in July that everything would change. Well folks, it hasn’t. If anything, it has made traveling easier.

2018 Year of Travel

2018 was another incredible year for traveling. Despite all of the heartache we suffered, we still had the opportunity to visit three new countries, travel to Europe on five separate occasions and take various trips around the US. Some of our highlight trips include the following.

Europe by Train

I referenced this trip above as we almost canceled it at the last minute but this turned out to be a real trip of a lifetime. We started in Portugal (the first of three new countries visited in 2018), flew to Geneva and then took the train with our Eurail first class travel pass through the Swiss Alps including the breathtaking Golden Pass and Bernina Express before heading into Italy and finishing in Greece.

Italy saw us explore a hidden gem in the Emilia-Romagna region by experiencing the best things to do in Bologna, while we found a real awesome apartment courtesy of L’8Boutique in the heart of this historic city. Day trips to Pisa and Rimini followed by a visit to the small municipality of San Marino (second new country in 2018) capped an awesome time in Italy.

Our final stop in Greece saw us spend 48 hours in Athens and as I’m sure you know, this city is rich full of history and gorgeous architecture.

Jersey, Channel Islands

The end of 2018 has been pretty rough but just prior to Christmas, we paid a visit to the beautiful island of Jersey in the Channel Islands. For those of you unaware of this geographic location, this group of islands is located off the south coast of England and actually much closer to the western coast of France.

We spent three days exploring the beautiful island and if you read our recent post on the best things to do in Jersey in winter, you will know that although this is renowned as a summer destination, it’s still well worth visiting during the quieter off-peak season.

Places such as Locke’s Coffee & Grub and Number 10 Restaurant were inspiring finds and Jersey is definitely a place we cannot wait to return to…hopefully, in the not too distant future!

South Devon, England

People are always asking me for recommendations on the best things to do in England, particularly for first time visitors. I am never going to recommend London, possibly because I am a “Northerner”, because in my opinion, it’s a tourist trap and generally doesn’t reflect the “true” England that I think people deserve to experience.

Ok, so the above paragraph is a little on the negative side because I still love exploring London with Heather and of course, it’s a place you have to visit. But there are SO many places outside of the capital that deserve to be experienced. Camping in Devon is one experience that we love, not only because we have found a real gem of a campsite unlike anywhere else in the world.

Exploring the best things to do in South Devon was an experience we will always cherish in 2018, not only because we had such a great time but also because these are the most recent memories we have spending time with my mum! It was an awesome trip and one that I know we all loved! We LOVED Devon prior to this trip but after all that happened, this place really has a special place in our hearts.

Oklahoma City

A trip a little closer to home saw us head west across I-40 to Oklahoma City. We have been here before but this trip was a little different as we headed there with a couple of friends to experience this city. If you are looking for a cool, vibrant, up and coming city, please consider Oklahoma City for your next trip!

OKC may not be the first place you think about visiting but there is a lot going on and there are plenty of awesome food spots to check out. By now, you have probably figured out we love checking out local coffee bars and visiting OKC was no different.

Be sure to check out our post on the best coffee shops in Oklahoma City…these alone would inspire us to visit again but don’t let this fool you because there is so many other cool things to do during 48 hours in Oklahoma City!

Summary

Goodbye 2018, Hello 2019! Despite all of the positive events and experiences we enjoyed over the last 12 months, Heather and I will both agree that we are looking forward to a much better 2019. It’s so difficult to go through such huge tragedies and keep motivating yourselves mentally to keep going.

We are both mentally and physically exhausted and so I think the first quarter in 2019 will be a little more relaxing for us. We have a lot to catch up on from our recent trips along with working on our new home but one thing is for sure, our plans to travel in 2019 are just as high as they have ever been before!

I have been scattering some quotes throughout this post and I think it’s only fitting that I end this with the following…

Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be happy now. Don’t wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it’s at work or with your family. Every minute should be enjoyed and savored. (Earl Nightingale)

We want to thank you all for the support you have shown us over the last 12 months and look forward to continuing to inspire everyone in the New Year! Happy New Year folks…here’s to an awesome 2019!

Best Things to Do in Jersey, Channel Islands in the Winter

England

Chris Boothman

Dec 24, 2018

Best Things to Do in Jersey, Channel Islands in the Winter

For those of you that have spent some time exploring the UK, you may have heard about the Channel Islands, a group of islands located off the south coast of England and much closer to the east coast of France. Visiting the Channel Islands is a popular choice among British tourists during the summer months but we like to do things a little differently and explore destinations in the off-season. We are delighted to be able to share some of the best things to do in Jersey during the winter months!

All too frequently we hear the term “hidden gem” and honestly, it’s probably an overused reference to places scattered across the globe.

There are little gems all around us that can hold glimmers of inspiration. (Richelle Mead)

Places that are frequently visited or overpopulated by tourists are hardly “hidden gems” but when you stumble across a place that most people probably never think about visiting, well it’s fair to see this epitomizes the perfect description for this word.

Jersey is definitely a place that fits this description given the natural, rugged coastlines, the rich history throughout the island reflected through the architectural gems and a group of locals that will make you feel incredibly welcome!

Jersey in Winter

Visiting any location in the Northern Hemisphere during winter is likely going to offer a more authentic experience. Of course, visitors to iconic cities such as London and Paris will face the tourist traps that are waiting to grab your attention but a place like the island of Jersey is nothing like this during the winter months. Ok, so the weather may not be the best but don’t let this stop you because trust us when we say, this time of the year is a great time to visit this beautiful island.

Whether you are the type of traveler that prefers the great outdoors or perhaps you prefer a mixture of history, heritage and fine dining, Jersey is home to all of the above and will likely have something to satisfy your interests. From the capital city of St. Helier which is undoubtedly the heartbeat of the island to the lesser known yet equally picturesque villages of Gorey and St. Catherine’s, there is something for everybody to enjoy on the largest of the 8 inhabited islands that make up the Channel Islands.

Despite its relatively small size, this island certainly packs a punch with so many cool attractions, delicious upscale restaurants, trendy coffee shops and much more. And all of that is before you head to the coast to enjoy the epic, breathtaking natural scenery!

We hope that after reading this guide you will be inspired to visit Jersey, regardless of time of the year. Winter is a time that should be embraced and it’s the ideal time to explore Jersey, especially if you don’t mind wrapping up warm with the prospect of drink later in the day to warm your insides.

Our recommendations on where to stay, things to do and where to eat are just based on our experiences but we definitely think Jersey will be a place you won’t regret visiting. Let’s take a look at why we fell in love with this beautiful island so quickly.

Where to Stay in Jersey

Although Jersey is a relatively small island at only 5 miles (north to south) and 9 miles (east to west), there are plenty of accommodation options available across various spots around the island. The most popular base for visitors is St. Helier and whether you want to stay in a luxury chain hotel such as the gorgeous Radisson Blu Waterfront or a more local establishment, you will be spoiled for choice.

Our visit to Jersey saw us spend two nights in The Hampshire Hotel. Recognized locally as a “boutique” hotel just a short walk from the heartbeat of St. Helier, this was definitely the perfect place to call home while we explored the island.

the Hampshire Hotels’ boutique charm and quality will be everything you need for an unforgettable stay in Jersey. (Hampshire Hotel)

Owned by Chris and Patricia Robin, who acquired this hotel in 2011, guests will immediately feel like they are at their “home away from home” thanks to the friendly welcome offered by everyone associated with the hotel.

Spacious rooms are available throughout the hotel and decorated to a high standard. A full English breakfast is available daily for guests staying at this hotel and will certainly prepare you for the day ahead exploring Jersey.

If you fancy a drink prior to heading out to enjoy dinner at one of Jersey’s eclectic range of restaurants, head down to the lounge bar inside The Hampshire to indulge in a cocktail or a pint (or two). For those of you prefer to stay at the hotel, don’t worry because there is a diverse menu available to enjoy dinner and sample the finest “Jersey Catches”.

Location is always one of the most important aspects to consider when booking a hotel. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about the location of The Hampshire because it’s perfectly situated to not only explore St. Helier but also the rest of the island.

Parking can be a challenge if you head into the heart of St. Helier so we recommend guests should leave their car at The Hampshire and take the short walk into the main town center. The biggest obstacle when arriving at The Hampshire for the first time is figuring out where to actually park but simply head down the narrow road signposted “No Entry” (except for access) and take the first left to find the spacious car park to the rear of the hotel.

Address
53 Val Plaisant,
St. Helier,
JE2 4TB

Tel: 01534 724115
Website: The Hampshire Hotel

Best Things to Do in Jersey

Jersey is a well recognized destination for summer holidays in the UK but don’t let the time of the year influence your decision because there are still plenty of things to do all year round. Let’s take a look at some of the best attractions and reasons to visit Jersey at any time of the year, including the freezing cold depths of winter.

Mont Orgueil

The gorgeous fishing port of Gorey is home to one of Jersey’s most spectacular attractions – Mont Orgueil Castle. For more than 800 years, Mont Orgueil has towered above the picturesque fishing village and regardless of what time of the year you visit Jersey, this is one of the attractions you cannot afford to miss.

At the time of publication of this post, visitors to Mont Orgueil Castle can enjoy this experience for £12.55 (adults – cheaper options available for children and seniors).

Explore one of the world’s finest examples of a medieval castle which has cast its shadow over the beautiful fishing village of Gorey for over 800 years. (Jersey Heritage)

Guided tours are available but exploring Mont Orgueil on your own is equally rewarding. Be prepared to climb a number of staircases before you reach the summit but nothing can quite prepare you for the breathtaking panoramic views that you will see from the top.

If you visit on a clear day, views across the Channel will allow you to catch a glimpse of the French coast but it’s perhaps the intertwining network of rooms, staircases and towers inside that will keep your attention. Some of the staircases can be quite narrow and challenging, so be prepared to take your time and enjoy the full experience at Mont Orgueil.

St. Catherine’s Bay

Take a drive to the north-east corner of Jersey to explore the beautiful area of St. Catherine’s Bay. Jersey’s spectacular rugged coastline is prominent here along with the rest of the north coast but the iconic landmark here that needs to be on your radar is St. Catherine’s Breakwater.

Regardless of the weather, get wrapped up with a waterproof (and windproof) jacket and take a stroll along the breakwater. Not only will you enjoy gorgeous views across St. Catherine’s Bay, but you can also learn about the history of this location.

Construction of St. Catherine’s Breakwater started in 1847 and was designed as a naval station. This was going to be the second largest naval station in the south side of the Channel after the French harbor of Le Havre. Measuring 640 meters in length, the original plan was for this to be longer but the final design is what we can enjoy today.

This is definitely a great place to take a relaxing stroll before heading back to St. Helier for an afternoon coffee. Alternatively, you can visit the local cafe which offers a selection of drinks and snack items.

Elizabeth Castle

When it comes to iconic landmarks in Jersey, there are not many that are quite as easily recognizable as Elizabeth Castle that sits just a couple hundred meters from the St. Helier coastline. Located on a tidal island which allows visitors to wander across to explore this towering architectural gem (alternatively, you can take the ferry across but be sure to check times to ensure it runs during your intended visit), Elizabeth Castle dates back to 1594 when it first opened its doors.

Unfortunately, the castle is closed to the public between November and March, so you may be wondering why we would include this location in a “winter guide to Jersey?” Well, as you can see from our images, this is a spectacular landmark that you should admire from St. Helier and inspire you to book a return trip during the peak season.

Elizabeth Castle has defended Jersey for over 300 years and similar to Mont Orgueil, it is today an awesome place to explore all the hidden rooms, passageways and bunkers. Just as you can enjoy epic views from the mainland across to Elizabeth Castle, from the summit of this island you can admire the gorgeous St. Helier harbor and perhaps pick out one of your favorite yachts.

Grosnez Castle

Taking a road trip around the island of Jersey is an experience in itself that you cannot afford to miss. Should you venture to the north-west corner, you will have the opportunity to explore the ruins of Grosnez Castle, dating back to the 14th-century.

The ruins are open to the public today free of charge and with ample parking available, you could easily use this as the perfect spot to take various hikes along the northern coastline. Climb the concrete steps to pass through the archway and explore the remaining ruins.

While learning about the history of this French inspired castle, you will find it difficult to keep your focus solely on this because of the breathtaking views available to you. Be careful as you are literally on the edge of a cliff but the panoramic scenes across the English Channel will leave you with memories you will always cherish.

La Corbiere Lighthouse

Visit the south-eastern corner of Jersey to enjoy more epic natural scenery, including the spectacular sight of La Corbière Lighthouse just off the coast.

Our visit to this part of Jersey saw us explore the coastline pretty much on our own, largely down to the fact it was a pretty rough day – gusts over 50mph made it tough to even stand up when hiking along the cliffs. But the inclement weather simply added to the experience and it seemed fitting that exploring this rugged coastline was done during these tough conditions.

Visitors can walk out to the lighthouse during low tide in better conditions and explore the landmark that literally translates into English as “a place where crows gather.”

Admiring the waves crashing against the lighthouse and the surrounding coastline was definitely a memorable experience but this is certainly a place we want to re-visit when conditions are a little more favorable to explore the lighthouse itself.

Variety of Jersey Museums

Although Jersey may be a small island, there is no shortage of awesome museums to be found across the island. St. Helier is home to various including the Jersey Museum and Art Gallery, The Maritime Museum and many others.

La Hougue Bie is one of the world’s oldest buildings and is located just a few minutes outside of St. Helier. The museum dedicated to displaying remnants of this neolithic site along with housing the island’s Archeological and Geology museum is well worth visiting.

If you have any interest in the history of the World Wars, head to the Jersey War Tunnels and Underground Hospital. Once an active hospital, this location has since been transformed into a museum dedicated to sharing the story of this network of underground tunnels.

Best Places to Eat in Jersey

While Jersey is home to an abundance of attractions, it is also worth noting that there is no shortage of restaurants to ensure this island can be renowned as a “foodie haven”. Whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat or enjoy a more luxurious dining experience in a formal setting, Jersey’s eclectic dining scene is such that you will not be left with a shortage of options.

Let’s take a look at a couple of our favorite dining experiences, ranging from the budget friendly options to those that perhaps should be left for a special occasion e.g. A Christmas dinner celebration is the perfect time to go!

Cafe Louise

In the shadow of Mont Orgueil Castle, the gorgeous village of Gorey is home to a number of local cafes and restaurants that deserve to be featured in this guide. One of our favorites for a quick lunch is Cafe Louise, locally owned and with great service in addition to the delicious menu options that are always available.

Home cooked soup accompanying a fresh sandwich is the perfect snack before clambering to the summit of Mont Orgueil. Whether you opt for this light snack or prefer one of the daily specials, Cafe Louise is an ideal spot to take a break from exploring Gorey.

Address
Gorey Pier,
Gorey,
JE3 6EW

Tel: 01534 854130

Locke’s Coffee & Grub

We will be putting together a guide of the best coffee shops in Jersey because we quickly fell in love with the coffee scene throughout the island, particularly in St. Helier. Our favorite spot was Locke’s Coffee & Grub, not only because the coffee (and food) was so good but also because the owners are amazing and the story behind this coffee shop is so cool.

The unique atmosphere inside this trendy coffee shop oozes urban farmhouse decor and probably because our own home back in the States follows a similar style, we quickly fell in love with this place.

A variety of traditional (and specialty) coffee beverages are available, each served to perfection and with a number of fresh pastries and cakes to choose from, Locke’s is the ideal place to enjoy a late morning snack or afternoon tea.

Ready for something with a little more substance? Don’t worry, Locke’s offers a variety of freshly prepared meals to satisfy everyone’s appetites.

Address
5 Pitt Street,
Charing Cross,
St. Helier
JE2 3RP

Tel: 07700 716968

Sumas Restaurant

Dating back to 1997 when it first opened its doors, Sumas Restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy a fine dining experience across the island of Jersey. Located in the harbor of Gorey, Sumas is a popular restaurant choice for both locals and visitors alike…and based on our experience there, it is definitely with good reason!

If you visit Sumas at Christmas, you can enjoy a festive Christmas dinner as part of a three course meal. Alternatively, there is a diverse array of delicious menu items available, whether you prefer a meat or seafood choice.

The menu showcases the best of Jersey’s shellfish, including Hand Dived Scallops, Royal Bay oysters, and Lobster, as well as fantastic steaks and meats. (Sumas Restaurant)

The seafront location overlooking the harbor and Mont Orgueil is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch or dinner on a warm day. But regardless of whether you eat inside or outside, you can be sure that you will receive excellent service to enjoy a luxury dining experience.

Address
Gorey Hill,
Gorey,
JE3 6ET

Tel: 01534 853291

Number 10 Restaurant & Bar

If you are ready to experience a little creativity and flair when it comes to your dining experience, head to Number 10 Restaurant & Bar in the heart of St. Helier’s town center. Mixing a British and Mediterranean cooking style, Number 10 offers a wide variety of dishes to create an eclectic three course meal.

The interior of the restaurant creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a romantic meal after a long day exploring the best of Jersey. Match your preferred menu choices with a glass of wine before leaving enough space to indulge in the decadent dessert options.

Address
10 Bond Street
St. Helier,
JE3 3NP

Tel: 01534 733223

Summary

Jersey may not be the first place you think about visiting when you are considering a winter getaway but after heading across to the largest of the Channel Islands, we can 100% attest that this is a great place to visit at any time of the year.

Of course, visiting during the summer months will open a few more opportunities in terms of opening hours and certain places that close for the season but as you can see, there are plenty of things to explore and places to eat regardless of what time of the year you choose to visit.

We are excited about the prospect of visiting Jersey again in the near future to hopefully head across to Elizabeth Castle and also enjoy some more of the breathtaking natural landscapes that can be found throughout the island. For outdoor lovers, there are not many places that offer as many spectacular hiking/biking trails as the island of Jersey!

Even if extreme outdoors adventure isn’t really your thing, be sure to explore Jersey’s awesome coffee and “foodie” scene because there are plenty of options that you won’t be able to resist. Welcome to “The Island Break” – a phrase that perfectly epitomizes the Jersey experience!

Eurail First Class Travel – How to Explore Europe in Luxury

Travel Tips

Chris Boothman

Dec 17, 2018

Eurail First Class Travel – How to Explore Europe in Luxury

Traveling around Europe by train is one of those experiences that should really be on everyone’s bucket list. Many people think that flying business class (or first class) is something they will never get to experience because of the extortionate airfares and honestly, I don’t blame them! We have flown first class once between Singapore and Melbourne and although you can see the difference, can you really justify the price difference? With train travel, you have the choice between first-class and second-class travel. We want to share our Eurail first class travel experiences based on our recent 10 day adventure across Europe.

As technologies and transportation methods evolve, the concept of traveling by train is unfortunately diminishing as travelers across the globe look to find cheaper, more efficient ways to get around. However, what people frequently forget is that traveling by train is actually a great way to save time but not only that, you can enjoy an experience unlike any other form of transportation.

I am going to go out on a limb with the following statement… “Exploring Europe by train is 100% the best way to get around and enjoy experiences you would otherwise miss out on” – yes, there are a bunch of low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair and if you are really pushed for time, these are great, affordable options.

But if you go that route, you miss out on exploring hidden gems like Colmar in the Alsace region of France, countries like San Marino in the heart of Italy and most importantly, those cultural interactions with locals across the continent.

Let’s take a look at why exploring Europe by train and in particular, why the benefits of purchasing a first-class Eurail pass is the best decision for any upcoming European travel.

Eurail First Class Travel Benefits

I want to start by taking a look at what some of the key benefits are when you purchase a first-class Eurail pass. This post isn’t going to delve into the details of why purchasing a Eurail pass in general is the best option (in our opinion it is but you can read all about the benefits of Eurail here), rather it will focus on why first-class train travel is a step about second-class and why you will immediately feel like you are in luxury.

Let’s start with a quick caveat…every train/operator across Europe is different and so the standards that you will find are very different dependent on where you are traveling. For example, first-class travel in Switzerland and Italy is going to be very different to first-class travel in Hungary or Slovenia!

But that’s all part of the European rail journey adventure because you get to experience all of these differences. Rather than worrying about the quality, why not embrace the uniqueness each country offers and with a first-class Eurail pass, you can at least guarantee you are going to get the best each operator offers!

1. Comfort

Let’s start with probably the most obvious and the aspect that is likely going to convince most folks to purchase first-class passes. The comfort levels available inside a first-class cabin/carriage is far superior to what you will experience in second-class.

Ok, let’s be realistic and reiterate that the difference between first and second class on a train isn’t quite what you experience on an airplane but it’s still noticeable enough to justify paying the extra price for a first-class pass.

Individually “customized” and “adjustable” seats are pretty standard inside all first-class cabins and you will likely experience more space (more on this later) with legroom and armrests. Extra wide tables are popular amenities inside a first-class cabin ensuring that you have plenty of room to catch up on work or relax with your favorite book.

The Frecciarossa high-speed trains in Italy are perhaps the most impressive that we have experienced, though for these you will be required to pay a small reservation fee each time you use them in addition to having the Eurail pass in-hand.

2. Availability

You are generally going to find that first-class seats are readily available, at least that is what we found during our recent trip across Europe. There will be occasions, such as during prime-time travel around 8-9AM and 4:30-6PM where it’s difficult to find any seats but overall you will find that more “locals” tend to opt for second-class travel as it’s cheaper and they are more concerned with reaching their destination rather than relaxing and admiring the scenery.

To reiterate what I referenced earlier…

In some countries first class simply means you have a better chance of finding a seat, whereas in other countries it means you’ll feel like royalty. (Eurail.com)

3. Peace and Quiet

Traveling in a first-class cabin generally means more “business” type people will be surrounding you, so it’s goes without saying they will likely be working away on their laptops and not holding many conversations.

The quiet cabin along with extra comfort in the seats will provide the perfect setting to catch up on some sleep or to simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery passing by you. Grab a snack courtesy of the onboard service available on many trains and get ready for a relaxing adventure across Europe.

4. Stay Connected and Fully Charged

It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, there is a pretty common requirement out there in society…we all have to stay connected 24/7! And this is where traveling in first-class helps because the majority of these cabins are fitted with power sockets to ensure every device is 100% charged throughout your train journey and beyond.

Some trains are equipped with wi-fi connectivity which is another awesome benefit of traveling by train. Depending on the country, you may be fortunate to have free access otherwise a small surcharge will be required regardless of which class you travel in.

USB access in your seat or directly above you is another perk that cannot be disregarded. Another option for charging your phone or tablet without having to worry about pulling out all those long charging cables and travel adapter.

These are just a few examples of how traveling first-class is beneficial over second-class. If you need a little more convincing, take a look at this graphic offered by Eurail comparing the two classes.

Justifying the Cost Difference

Ok, so you are starting to get an idea by now that there are plenty of perks traveling first-class versus regular second-class. However, one more aspect is always going to be considered by travelers looking at Eurail passes – the cost difference!

Every Eurail pass is different and prices are always fluctuating because of seasonal rates and also discounts that are frequently available (that’s right folks, don’t forget to frequently keep checking Eurail’s website and social networks for notice about discounts!). However, let’s take a base Eurail Global Pass based on current prices (at the time of publication of this post), just to give you an idea of price comparison.

Type	1st Class	2nd Class
5 Days (1 Month)	€468	€376
7 Days (1 Month)	€570	€458
15 Days Continuous	€597	€480
22 Days Continuous	€768	€616

So, in the grand scheme of things, the price difference between 1st and 2nd class travel on a train is not massive. Is it worth paying the extra to enjoy the benefits of 1st class train travel? That’s entirely up to you but in our opinion, the answer is 100% yes!

Where to Travel First Class in Europe

The simple answer to the above question is EVERYWHERE and ANYWHERE! It really doesn’t matter where you choose to travel with your Eurail pass because you are going to reap the benefits the moment you step on the train.

Ok, so if you stay around Western Europe, the train system is a little more “developed” and “modern” so the benefits are going to be more obvious rather than in the Eastern European nations. But don’t let that stop you from heading further East because this is the BEST opportunity to explore some of those countries that may otherwise never have found their way on to your bucket list.

Here are some of the adventures you could experience should you choose to follow our route but honestly, we highly recommend checking out either our website (click on Destinations and Europe for some inspiration) or Eurail’s site here for popular routes.

Experience the best things to do in Bologna – explore one of Italy’s hidden gems that frequently falls under the radar of the more infamous cities across the nation.
Enjoy the Golden Pass in Switzerland by traveling between Lucerne and Interlaken (and beyond) – one of the many breathtaking, alpine routes to be enjoyed throughout Europe.
Free Brussels Walking Tour – head to the heart of Belgium to enjoy one of the best free walking tours we have discovered across Europe courtesy of Sandemans.
Head further east and experience the very best of the Hungarian capital Budapest in one day.

These are just a couple of examples of experiences you can enjoy and the beauty of traveling by first-class is that when you arrive in each of your chosen destinations, you will be fully relaxed and energized to explore everything there is to see there.

Summary

The benefits of Eurail’s first class pass are just one of the reasons why we consider taking the train to explore Europe is the best method of transportation. It’s tough competition out there to navigate around Europe when you could feasibly rent a car and drive or hop on one of the many low-cost airlines scattered across the continent. But neither of these options give you quite as much flexibility, comfort and relaxation as a first-class cabin does.

Our recent trip to Europe was one of the toughest trips we have taken, mainly for personal reasons. After losing my mother quite suddenly just a few weeks prior to this trip, we were very apprehensive about heading back across the pond to take on the adventure of traveling around Europe by train. But the moment we stepped on our first train in Geneva, Switzerland, we realized we had made the right decision because that was our way of dealing with such a tragedy and helping us relax.

We hope after reading this post you will be convinced to purchase a first-class train ticket and experience the very best of Europe just like we have done. We have enjoyed this on three separate occasions, each time exploring a different region and visiting new countries. It’s hard to pick a favorite route or a favorite destination but all we can say is that this type of travel is what will quickly give you the wanderlust to want to explore more!

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Chur to Tirano – Eurail Pass

Bernina Express Route

Chur to St. Moritz

Olympic Town of St. Moritz

St. Moritz to Tirano

Summary

A Year Full of Tragedy

Tragedy of Tragedies

Always a Silver Lining

Our First House

2018 Year of Travel

Europe by Train

Jersey, Channel Islands

South Devon, England

Oklahoma City

Summary

Jersey in Winter

Where to Stay in Jersey

Best Things to Do in Jersey

Mont Orgueil

St. Catherine’s Bay

Elizabeth Castle

Grosnez Castle

La Corbiere Lighthouse

Variety of Jersey Museums

Best Places to Eat in Jersey

Cafe Louise

Locke’s Coffee & Grub

Sumas Restaurant

Number 10 Restaurant & Bar

Summary

Eurail First Class Travel Benefits

1. Comfort

2. Availability

3. Peace and Quiet

4. Stay Connected and Fully Charged

Justifying the Cost Difference

Where to Travel First Class in Europe

Summary

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