From Turin to Switzerland. A Friendship to Cherish

Just like a painting. Breathing happiness and inhaling good vibes surrounded by the unique Swiss Magic.

When Food Brings People Together

Food and Friendship is the best meal you could ever ask for!

Three years ago, I had the pleasure of guiding a wonderful soul named Lynda through the chocolate magic of Turin.

Finding a coin is considered a direct blessing from the heavens, a sign that someone is watching over you and perhaps blessing you with some kind of divine gift… I’d like thinking that we, myself & Lynda, were blessed with our friendship that exact moment.

As a local food expert, I’ve had the opportunity to share my love for Turin’s rich flavors with many people, but there was something truly special about that day.

Lynda, with her infectious enthusiasm, and a zest for discovery, brought a unique energy to our chocolate expedition.

What started as a simple exploration of Turin’s sweet side quickly evolved into the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Over the years, despite the distance and the inevitable changes – and challenges- life brings, our bond has only grown stronger. We stayed in touch, exchanging stories and memories, our connection deepening with each shared experience.

Then, a few months ago, last April, to be precuse, Abram and I received an invitation from Lynda to visit her and Richard- her utterly amazing husband – in Switzerland—a gesture that felt like an invitation to join family…

This is one of my absolute favourite pictures of our Swiss Time. It marks the endless beauty of creating significant connections. Moreover, it awakens a sense of limitless power and quitness. It’s strenght and grace. Like Abram’s and Richard’s personalities! Btw, pic has been taken just a few hours after our arrival. Everything felt so smooth and natural! As if it was not our first time there. Amazing!♡

A Reunion in the Swiss Alps

The anticipation built as Abram and I journeyed from Turin to Switzerland, driving through the breathtaking landscapes that connect these two countries.

When I finally arrived in Geneva and met Lynda, it was as if no time had passed at all.

The warmth of her welcome, the kindness of Richard, the beauty of the surroundings, and the joy of being together made it a perfect reunion.

We spent our days wandering through the charming countryside of Switzerland, chilling out by the pool of their beautiful house, having fun around the table & in the kitchen, exploring the hidden gems, visiting markets… But, most importantly, being thankful for having found each other!

The bond we’d formed years ago over chocolate and laughter had only strengthened, transforming into something that felt like family.

The cutest church ever 🙂

Our time together in Switzerland was not just a continuation of our friendship—it was a celebration of it.

Precious French Wine to Toast to a Precious Friendship

Cosmic Connection in Gruyères: Cocktails at the Alien Caffè

During our unforgettable journey, Lynda and Richard surprised us with many things, including a day trip to the charming, medieval village of Gruyères—a place that felt like stepping into another dimension.

Among its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, we found ourselves at the Alien Caffè, a spot as intriguing as it was unexpected. Built right in front of the Alien Museum, this café is a tribute to the Swiss visionary who brought the universe of “Alien” to life.

2 crazy women at Museum Bar HR Giger 😀

The café’s eerie yet fascinating ambiance was a stark contrast to the village’s fairytale charm, creating a dichotomy that made our visit all the more memorable.

As we sipped on a cocktail that felt almost otherworldly, it was easy to draw a parallel between this strange, cosmic setting and the connections we’ve formed.

Much like the interstellar world of “Alien,” our friendship has transcended the ordinary, bringing together people from different walks of life into a bond that feels like it was destined in some far-off galaxy.

Richard, who has traveled the world with Lynda, considers this one, one of his favorite spots—not just for the crazy ambiance but for the way it blends the unexpected with the familiar, much like our own journey together, I’d say.

Lynda’s surprise was phenomenal, not just because of the place, but because it perfectly encapsulated the essence of our adventures—unpredictable, full of wonder, and deeply connected.

Thank you, guys 💫

The Magic of Culinary Connections

What made this reunion so special was the way food continued to play a central role in our connection. Just as our friendship began with a shared love for Turin’s chocolate, it continued to flourish in the heart of Switzerland.

Guess who always got two treats from the patisserie? Yep, Abram. Savoury and Sweet

Each meal we shared was a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to deepen relationships.

Lynda’s vibrant personality, adventurous spirit, and warm heart were as infectious as ever, and Abram and I found ourselves inspired by hers and Richard’s energy. And the feeling was mutual.

As we enriched our summer with this beautiful celebration of Friendship, we were reminded of how our food tours in Turin are about so much more than just food—they’re about the connections we make, the stories we share, and the lasting friendships that form along the way.

Practical Tips for Your Turin to Switzerland Journey

If our story has inspired you to explore beyond Turin, a trip to Switzerland is an excellent choice.

Just a three-hour drive from Turin, Switzerland offers year-round appeal, whether you’re drawn to the snow-covered peaks of the Alps or the tranquil beauty of Geneva’s lakeside.

Here are just a few practical tips to help you plan your journey:

Travel Tips:

• Rent a car in Turin for the drive to Switzerland, and take your time to enjoy the stunning Alpine views along the way. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination.
• Don’t prefer to rent a car but just enjoying the ride with someone else driving for you? I highly recommend you to try the FlixBus To Geneva (it’s just a comfy 4 hour trip)
• From luxury hotels to charming guesthouses, it’s plenty of accomodations to suit any preference.
• Foodie Recommendations: Don’t miss out on the local culinary delights. In Turin, join one of our food tours to discover the city’s hidden gems.
• In Switzerland, indulge in traditional dishes like fondue and raclette, and of course, continue the chocolate journey. We recommend you to try this adorable choco-gem located in a super cozy village called Perroy: Tristan chocolatier will amaze your tastebuds with one of his creations!
• Cultural Insights: Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Whether it’s a culinary escapade with us in Turin or a hiking day in Switzerland, with a pit stop for some top cheese fondue good calories – these experiences will enrich your journey.

A Final Thought

Reflecting on our journey from Turin to Switzerland, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships that food has brought into my life. It’s in the shared moments around the table, in the laughter, and in the memories we create together that the true magic of food is found.

Cheers to True Friendship!

“The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.” – Richard Bach

That’s what a true Friendship is. A warm hug just to say: I love you and always be there for you.

We invite you to join us on a food tour in Turin. Who knows? You might just find a friendship that will last a lifetime.

Thankful & Blessed,

Chinchilla AKA Cecilia

(Chinchilla is the cute nickname that Lynda gave me in 2021, neverthless the only name that I have when I am with her 🙂

Me being much Chinchilla with my friends sunflowers and the lucky summer hat. 👒 Life is Good. Enjoy it!

About the Author

Gosh, I am not much of a fan of the “About the Author” session (feels quite like sharing a cv, which I have always found kinda boring. Both to create and to share).

Anyhow, I am the co-founder and owner of I Eat. Food Tours and this all business was entirely conceived by myself and my partner in life and busines. Everything you see, read, experience… it has my own as much as Abram’s energies, effort, creativity, knowledge… Although when it comes to the writing stuff, that’s only me being involved.

Back to the  about the Author thing… check if you like this ( I like changing my brief presentation so now and then. Pretty often, in truth).

I live an ordinary life, but I do feel in an extraordinary way. Sounds perhaps better in Italian, though (Vivo in maniera ordinaria e sento in maniera straordinaria). That’s for me a blessing. I do adore my EXTRA“ordinary life”! 🙂

Thanks for coming by and please let me know if you’d like reading more inspirational stories like this one. I am lucky enough to have collected quite a few significant ones that would warm your heart.

Or, even more beautiful, if you would like sharing any inspirational stories connected to travel, food & people I am all ears! That would be utterly delicious in every possible way!

C.x

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