When I moved to Switzerland, I really thought I was well prepared for dating. New culture, new people – how hard could it be?
Then I got invited for a “walk.”
In my head: a relaxed 20–30 minute stroll, maybe a coffee to go, some chatting, a bit of flirting. Easy.
Reality: hiking boots would have been appropriate.
After 30 minutes: “Aw, cute, we’re out in nature.”
After 1 hour: “Okay… this is more of a walk walk.”
After 2 hours: “Is this still a date or am I part of a fitness program?”
After 3 hours: I was pretty sure I had accidentally joined an Olympic training camp.
And her? Full of energy, in a great mood, somewhere between mountain and sky: “It’s not much further!”
(Spoiler: it was much further.)
Later, I learned that in Switzerland, a “walk” often means a full-on mini expedition – complete with elevation gain, snacks and mental preparation.
Now I know:
A “walk” does not necessarily mean a walk.
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