I would like to introduce you to Ditzy, our affectionally named GPS system. Weather she has been designed on purpose for the non-native tourist or not, she likes to take the scenic route. She is often challenged against my good old fashioned map and an adjustment or two is made however today takes the cake.
We knew traveling from Arbois to Lake Annecy would take us close to the Swiss boarder but we didn’t expect a detour to Geneva! Not that we minded. Strike another country up for the Griswold tour!
Knowing her penchant for scenic pathways the route was checked closely and when a little Swiss detour was identified we went with the flow. The alpine region is breathtaking and in 35 degrees it was almost surreal driving down to Lake Geneva framed by snow capped mountains in the distance.
The architecture changed immediately from bland alpine lodges to elaborately decorated houses. Blasé cheese making cows transformed into an orchestra of bells and hoved dancing – things appeared happier in Switzerland and I started looking for the elusive ‘Milka’ cow.
‘How many Swiss francs to the dollar?’ was what I was saying to myself whilst I withdrew some money via the ATM. I took a shot and selected the second lowest denomination option, a quick check via my iPhone confirmed i just withdrew $120AUD bugger!! Well with money to burn we grabbed a bite to eat (3 crapes, 2 beers, 2 lemonades) and $60AUD later it was an experience that would last! a quick stop in a souvenir shop and all the Swiss francs were safely back in the country again.
Back into the car, 10min later we were back in France and on our way to the destination….. Lake Annecy – we hope!!
