Lausanne: Cathédrale and Place de la Palud (3.10.14)

I said I'd try and keep this up... never said anything about prompt huh. I've been back in Lausanne after four days in Madrid and more than a tad behind on this blog attempt. I'm now hostel-hopping across this mini country and catching up on blogs while on the train (fit my laptop in with my backpack full of clothes -chyea).

"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone."

Traveling alone in cities that speak unfamiliar languages is definitely a learning experience. It's a little daunting at first, especially in non-touristy areas, but I've gradually been getting accustomed to it.

My second day wandering Lausanne, I took the subway down to the city and walked in circles for a bit. You can ask me where all the free wifi spots are here - they are my savior when I'm confused. Maps need to be 3D in this city, there are so many times where what look like intersections and streets end up involving bridges and paths below/above you. While exploring the old area of Lausanne, I found myself gradually climbing up a hill towards the Cathédrale de Lausanne. From there, was a great view of the city’s rooftops with the lake and mountains further off in the background.

After navigating back to the free wifi zone, I attempted to search for Le Barbare, a café in the area known for its hot chocolate and recommended to me by a friend who studied abroad in Lausanne for a bit (thanks Erica!). Finally found the place tucked in a corner on a path below  the cathedral. Again, the waitress spoke no English but I managed to figure out how to order hot chocolate and a sandwich. (I’m having way better luck on these educated guesses from French menus than on multiple choice exams back in school…) Their hot chocolate also basically means rich melted chocolate in a cup – chocolate pudding, yum.

Ended this day of wandering in circles sitting at a cute fountain (which became even better when I found out there was free wifi, aka Google Maps) people watching and buying postcards. My internet access and postcard-skimming helped me realize I was sitting on the fountain in the center of Place de la Palud (the center of Lausanne's old pedestrian area). The fountain was even featured on a couple of the postcards I was looking over. Good job, Soph.

...and to be honest, my blogging will probably continue to be as sporadic. Love and miss you all.

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