As you hop from country to country during your Forum-Nexus experience, you are likely to notice that every nation has a unique set of cultural nuances. From the language spoken right down to the types of foods that serve as staples of the local diet, each European territory has its own distinct identity, and you will be able to witness it firsthand. Of all the nations you will see, Switzerland is perhaps the most striking due to its blended characteristics, which can be seen in Swiss cities such as Lugano.
When students travel to this Alpine country, they are likely to notice that the Swiss culture is extremely complex. Because this small nation is neatly nestled in the middle of Europe, it has adopted various traits from its numerous neighbors. Depending on the exact location travelers are staying, they could encounter an entirely different version of Switzerland, as each area has been impacted by another country.
For example, when you set off to Lugano, chances are that you will discover a number of ways in which this city has been shaped by Italian influences. Just by looking around the streets, you could spot many features that give away the fact that this locale lies a short distance from the border that Switzerland shares with the boot-shaped nation below. To make the most of your study abroad time in Lugano, you should immerse yourself in this heavily Italianized culture.
Drink in the Italian flavors of Lugano
After students wrap up their classes and their organized excursions, they should think about how to spend their free time in this area of Switzerland. If study abroad travelers are looking for the best way to unwind while still savoring some of the local flavor, they may want to think about exposing themselves to the Swiss way of life with regards to wine.
That's right, Switzerland has a high degree of finesse when it comes to making and enjoying vino, just like its southern neighbor. While you are in Lugano, you should seriously consider sampling some of the most remarkable examples of Swiss wines, pairing them with specialties from the nearby area, of course. If this option appeals to both your taste buds and worldly spirit, then head to Bottegone del Vino and let the sipping and snacking begin.
When stopping by this Lugano restaurant, students will never know exactly what kind of meal awaits them. The menu varies on a daily basis, and the tasty offerings are proudly written on a chalkboard. Accompanying these food selections is a list of wine suggestions. The in-house sommelier, whose expertise enables him or her to offer prime examples of vintages crafted throughout the area, personally picks which wines to offer each day.
If you want to experience the Swiss wine tradition without the ordeal of heading to a restaurant, you could do something as simple as heading into a small shop and purchasing your own bottle. Make this venture especially memorable by picking up some local artisan cheese from Macelleria Gabbani, a delicatessen in Lugano, and having a picnic in one of the many scenic Alpine parks throughout the city.