Zermatt 2022: A Look Back

Every day we are grateful for choosing to be a part of NJC class of 2022. Over this past week in between semesters, families, as well as students, were given the opportunity to explore and enjoy a ski week in Zermatt.

 

A short 3-hour drive from Neuchâtel sits a scenic town full of life. The town of Zermatt has a special air to it and is unlike any other ski destination I’ve been to. Unlike most tourist ski resorts; this unique spot has stayed quaint and kept its character. From the miniature motorized taxis which are the only cars permitted to the short funicular ride up the mountain the charm is undeniable.

 

It was an opportunity to share part of the adventure that our year abroad has given us, with our families. For the skiers among us, taking a helicopter or gondola to Italy for lunch and some beautiful sunny runs was another novelty. A huge difference we found in European skiing was how important our time on the mountain with our loved ones was, in comparison to the usual race to the bottom. I enjoyed the long unrushed lunches on the mountain looking over the Matterhorn and taking time to appreciate the surroundings (which allowed us to savor the day). For those who don't ski, you were able to meet up with the group during après-ski time or spend your time skating or walking around the beautiful village. The Matterhorn can be seen from anywhere in Zermatt; therefore, it wasn’t necessary to ski to be present in its beauty.

 

Unlike many of our other trips, this one did not have a set itinerary; the chance to explore the town during the day and then meet everyone for dinner at the hotel restaurant allowed for each person to experience Zermatt in their own way. Being in Zermatt with our classmates, as well as our families, allowed us to show our parents just how amazing life in Switzerland is. It gave not only the students, but also the parents a chance to bond with one another in a variety of different ways. The organized dinners, hockey games, and dance parties, as well as Apres-ski parties, gave families and students time to bond with one another, which truly enhanced the experience. We are all so lucky to have the opportunity to explore Europe but being able to do so with not only our peers, but family was truly an amazing experience.

 

Despite only being halfway through the school year and knowing we will have many more amazing travel experiences, we believe that the experience we had at Zermatt is one we will forever remember.  




A special thank you to Megan'22 and Thatcher '22 who co-wrote this piece together