0630 I slept well. Room is small but comfortable. Actually about same size as last London room. Aircon worked and low fan was quiet. I was still a bit warm at times but ok.
Weather is mild. Currently 20 degrees. Rain forecast for mid afternoon.
When I checked in last night, the clerk mentioned that the TV wasn’t working and offered to change room or give discount. Nice of them to offer rather than rely on my complaint. Didn’t matter to me anyway and I used the discount to add breakfast. Win!
0735 I head down to breakfast. Managed OK and English seems to get me by OK. The breakfast buffet is certainly not on par with the Radisson breakfast but it will do and it’s half the price.
Feel a little shaky today. A bit of nerves and a bit of stress fallout from yesterday.
0915 After a lot of faffing about and some planning, I head out. Sun-screened and ready.
Managed to get cash from ATM. Sim is harder because they require passport and I didn’t bring it out. No rush because I’ve got roaming today. And actually, the one I found sounded good but super expensive. On reflection, paying the Optus roaming charges would be cheaper.
1000 Passed over bridge. River flowing so fast and water so blue/turquoise.
Have noticed slightly more mask wearing in Europe.
1045 I reach an information point. I was thinking of a short lake cruise. The information is confusing and I’m wasting good light. So I skip for now to walk around the lake more.
I walk to Le Jet d’eau. Very impressive. And just as interesting to see where the water falls as it is to see it rise.
1130 It’s 24 degrees with a light breeze. I sit on the jetty for a little while. It’s getting busier now, so a walk back through the old town would be too hard for photos. Besides I got a lot. Might walk to the other side of the lake and check out cruises at the same time.
There are a number of beaches on the lake and they are busy.
Just realised! Why did I put a phone number label on my phone. Should have been email. Doh!
1221 First light spots of rain. I’ve walked quite a bit and my legs are sore. Probably still from yesterday. Feeling pecking so I should think about lunch. Then a short downpour. Lucky I have my umbrella.
1248 I find a Wasabi for a healthy lunch and manage ok with language. They have a machine to handle cash payments. Feeling pleased that I managed OK.
I find that if I start with “Parlez vous Anglais?” rather than just speaking English I tend to get a better response. Adding “Merci” is a good move too.
That reminds me, on the train to Geneva there was a mum, her mum and kids. They were all very polite and friendly. I had originally tried to confirm with her that I was on the right train and tried with a combination of English and pointing. Later, as the number of passengers got smaller we sort of had a little group of us. She was offering around biscuits and I remembered to say “Merci”. She commented “That’s good sir” to acknowledge that I tried.
1318 Finished lunch. I’m near the hotel, so I will drop by for the loo. Then will walk out again while the weather is still OK.
1350 I return to the lake and the light is better so I retake some photos.
1420 I wander back and find the floral clock then stop for a very delicious pistachio soft serve.
I get a ticket for a 1 hour lake cruise.
1505 Depart.
It’s a nice way to spend an hour.
1604 Return.
Lemon sorbet by the lake.
1622 It’s been a long day and I’ve been standing up for most of it. Will grab some cold refreshments from a supermarket then get back to the hotel to chill. I need to plan tomorrows journeys.
Supermarket shop was easy.
1648 Back at hotel. I had a large and healthy lunch so I just grab a baguette for dinner.
I work photos and blog and just chill.
2100 I had an idea to check out Le Jet d’eau when it is lit up in the evening. I had thought it would happen at 9pm and have been waiting around. But I check and it is after sunset. I’m already tired, so I’m not going to wait for that.
