Travel Diaries - Chapter 1: Kristin’s Alpine Adventure
This week, we’re following Kristin as she departs for her trip that’s truly one for the books, a magical celebration of 25 years with her best friend and soulmate. This journey isn’t just about crossing destinations off a list, it’s about creating moments that are authentic, curated, and unforgettable. Think Alpine adventures, cultural connections, and jaw-dropping properties that feel like they were made just for you.
Alpine Adventures & Curated Experiences
Kristin’s trip features experiences you won’t find on a standard tour:
Full-Day Guided Tour of the Appenzell Region – Exploring the lush farmland and rolling hills of Appenzellerland with a local guide. Visiting a mountain farm to meet the dairy cows and see cheese production in action, enjoying a farm-to-table lunch featuring artisanal meats, soups, and beef tartare, and discover local culture on a guided walk through the village. Experiencing a Hackbrett demonstration, a traditional musical instrument of the region, and visit a professional chocolatier for an exclusive tasting.
Salzburg Walking Tour – Explore Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, from the Hohensalzburg Fortress to Mirabell Gardens, with insights from a local guide.
Salzburg Cooking Class – Learn to make classic Austrian dishes like apple strudel and Salzburger Nockerl soufflé in a hands-on class with a local chef.
Oktoberfest in Munich – Immerse yourself in the lively Bavarian tradition of Oktoberfest, complete with music, food, and festive cheer.
Private “Barry Walk” with St. Bernards – Join a local guide for a private hike that introduces the legendary rescue dogs of the Swiss Alps and their history.
Guided Walking Tour of Lucerne – Discover Lucerne’s charm, from the Chapel Bridge to the Lion Monument, with stories from a local guide.
Hike to Chez Vrony for Anniversary Lunch – A breathtaking alpine hike in Zermatt that ends at Chez Vrony, where Swiss specialties are served in a cozy mountain setting.
These experiences reflect Kristin’s goal of connecting with local culture, exploring hidden gems, and enjoying moments that feel both personal and memorable.
Luxurious Accommodations
The trip includes stays at some of the region’s most exceptional properties:
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, Salzburg – A historic castle-turned-luxury hotel on Lake Fuschl, with panoramic views, a spa, and elegantly designed rooms.
Park Hotel Vitznau, Lucerne – Overlooking Lake Lucerne, this hotel combines tranquility with refined luxury, offering private beaches, multiple dining options, and a stellar wine cellar.
The Chedi Andermatt – Nestled in the Swiss Alps, The Chedi blends Alpine chic with Asian influences, featuring a spa, restaurants, and ski-in/ski-out access.
Passalacqua, Lake Como – Concluding the journey, this historic villa offers lush gardens, a private dock, and lake-view rooms—perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Travel Essentials
Cold-weather trips require thoughtful packing, often resulting in extra luggage. Kristin streamlined her travel by mailing her bags ahead with Luggage Free, which delivers luggage from her door directly to her accommodations. It’s a stress-free solution, especially for ski gear, golf clubs, or tight flight connections.
Other essentials Kristin is bringing:
Alpine boots and warm layers for outdoor adventures
Travel-friendly skincare for cold weather
Lightweight daypack for exploring villages and towns
Travel Prep
Preparing for a trip is just as important as the adventure itself. Kristin’s travel prep routine is all about staying organized, efficient, and stress-free:
Itinerary Review – She goes through every activity and hotel stay to ensure timing, reservations, and special requests are confirmed.
Packing Strategy – Outfits are planned by destination and activity, layering is key for alpine adventures, and all essentials are packed first in carry-on for easy access. Shopping for last mintue wardrobe essentials
Currency & Banking – Before traveling to Switzerland, Kristin hits the ATM to get Swiss francs and Euros, which is often the easiest and most cost-effective way to access local currency. Many Swiss ATMs accept international cards and offer competitive exchange rates, so you don’t have to worry about hunting for currency once you arrive.
Travel Documents & Essentials – Passports, tickets, local currency, and any confirmations are consolidated in a travel organizer for quick access.
Tech & Entertainment Prep – Devices are charged, audiobooks and playlists are downloaded, and adapters and portable chargers are packed for smooth travel.
Spa Appointment – Kristin always schedules a pre-travel spa treatment, and her favorite is a lymphatic massage. It’s the perfect way to relax, stimulate circulation, and prepare her body for travel, especially long flights.
This preparation allows Kristin to focus on the experience, knowing all the details are handled before she even leaves the door.
Watch Kristin as she packs, plans, and preps all the essentials for her upcoming adventure—travel tips and must-haves included!
Airport Picks
While waiting at the Capitol Lounge in Dulles (complimentary with the Capital One Venture X card), Kristin enjoys fresh salads, elevated grab-and-go options, expertly crafted coffee, and a relaxing atmosphere.
*Insider Info - Capitol Ones partnered with Chef José Andrés on their launge menus.
For entertainment, she’s diving into fall-inspired reads and audiobooks:
Currently finishing The Nightingale on audible- “I like to listen to audiobooks as I'm waiting to board the plane and waiting for everyone to get settled and take off. I'm looking forward to all the German WWII history I'll learn on this trip that will go hand in hand with the story of The Nightingale.”
Next up: Unnatural by Mia Sheridan and The Pumpkin Spice Spell by Erin Branscom
