Submitted by Juliette Ciro on the 2019 summer session program in Switzerland and Italy sponsored by the Department of Hospitality Business Management…
Upon my arrival in Switzerland, I immediately felt a sense of peace and gratitude. I have never experienced a setting so beautiful and enchanting – the mountains, lakes, rivers, and valleys have really set the mood for this program. In the United States, I don’t live in an area where the landscape is so green and inviting. Everything that I have seen so far has been so natural and has made me feel a sense of serenity. The spas and hotels that we have visited have been so different from any I have ever seen. They have made me realize that for me a hotel and spa experience is truly about the location. Being able to relax in a pool while looking out at the Alps is unlike anything I have ever done. Not only is Switzerland the most beautiful country I have ever seen, but also the cleanest. The people here truly believe in sustainability and conservation. I have not seen one piece of litter on the ground here yet, which is very impressive. Overall, this week has shown me that there are so many differences between the United States and Switzerland and that there is so much beauty and room for self-realization when surrounded by raw nature.
