Some Trips Take You Further Than You Think
A Lot Can Happen in 24 Hours
Some Trips Take You Further Than You Think
A Lot Can Happen in 24 Hours
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A Lot Can Happen in 24 Hours
Brian Schwan
7/8/2025
One thing travel teaches you—quickly—is how much can happen in 24 hours. Today, we woke up high in the Swiss Alps, took a gondola down from a glacier, drove through winding valleys into France, crossed into Switzerland again, cheered at a European soccer match... and then, in the middle of it all, said goodbye to one of our kids.
Not forever, of course—but we dropped off our daughter with family friends in France, where she’d spend the next stretch of our trip on a cultural exchange adventure with their daughter. She’d eat French meals, attend local events, and experience a very different kind of summer vacation. While the rest of us continued on through Germany, Switzerland, and Alsace, she’d be diving into something new—and honestly, kind of brave. It was a lot for 24 hours. But somehow, that’s exactly how this trip was designed: moments of motion, pause, change, and memory.
We left Engelberg around noon, still buzzing from our foggy glacier hike. Our drive took us out of the Swiss mountains and into flatter terrain, where France and Switzerland blur together in a way that’s uniquely European. The borders are so casual, you almost don’t notice you’ve crossed—until your GPS says, “Welcome to France,” and your data plan panics for a moment.
Our hotel for the night was just across the French border from Basel—practical, family-friendly, and close to the airport. We checked in, dropped bags, and got ready for our next mission: a Women’s Euro Cup soccer match—Germany vs. Denmark—right in the heart of Basel.
Soccer Energy in Basel
Soccer Energy in Basel
We made our way into Basel, where the energy was totally different than anything we’d experienced on this trip so far. The city was buzzing with fans, jerseys, and face paint. The Women’s Euro Cup match had drawn supporters from all over Europe—and it was electric.
The kids were all-in, flying German flags, tracking stats, and soaking up the big-game atmosphere. The stadium itself was gorgeous, with great sightlines and just the right amount of chaos. Even if you’re not a huge soccer fan, attending a game in Europe is an experience in itself—equal parts cultural event and sporting spectacle.
Germany vs. Denmark didn’t disappoint. The cheers, chants, and crowd energy reminded us that sports—like travel—have a language of their own.
A Different Kind of Goodbye
A Different Kind of Goodbye
The next morning we met up with family friends just over the border in Belfort, France. We’d been planning this for months: our daughter would stay with them for a few days of language immersion, cultural exchange, and just good old-fashioned friendship time.
Still, actually saying goodbye—even for a little while—hit differently.
She was ready. Confident. Excited. But watching her walk off with her new host family while we drove away was one of those “wow, she’s growing up” moments. It was a reminder of why we travel—not just to see the world, but to experience it in ways that stretch us. And this was one of those moments for all of us.
Practical Tips
Practical Tips
Stay near the border if visiting Basel. Accommodations in France can be more affordable and still super convenient.
Check entry requirements. Even with open EU borders, your GPS and SIM card don’t always keep up—have offline maps ready.
Soccer tickets in Europe are worth the effort. Look for youth discounts and local matches for more affordable options.
Cultural exchanges are gold. If you have friends abroad, these short stays can be incredibly meaningful for kids (and eye-opening for parents).
Plan light on transition days. Give yourself flexibility when crossing countries or changing family logistics.
We didn’t climb a mountain that day. We didn’t kayak or eat a meal with a view. But we crossed borders—geographically and emotionally. We dropped off one of our kids so she could step into her own adventure. We watched world-class athletes compete in a city buzzing with energy. And we ended the day feeling proud, grateful, and a little more connected to the world.
It was a bridge day. From one chapter to the next. From childhood to something slightly older. From Engelberg to Alsace. From five travelers to four—and one brave kid on her own side quest.
Want to keep following the journey?
Up Next: A reset in the rhythm: From farewell hugs to cute and cozy houses, and a French pastry or two in between.
Part 11: And Then There Were Four
After a big travel day—and a big goodbye—it felt good to slow down.
We had officially dropped off our daughter with friends in France, where she’d be spending a few days immersed in the local culture, sleeping under a different roof, and seeing Europe through someone else’s lens. The shift was real. Five travelers became four. We didn’t rush that morning. It was one of those quiet in-between days. Not a “bucket list” kind of day—but the kind that becomes memorable because it didn’t need to be...
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