#Switzerland’s national dish | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

incorrectcoldflashblog · 8 months

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Sooooo...is it too much to ask for your answers to all of the questions on the ask list about your country?? (I hope you will say no and tell me to select a handful, if that's what you prefer.)

Sorry, sorry, I totally meant to do this faster but that was a lot of questions, haha. Putting this under a read more because it got LONG.

1.) favourite place in your country?

Honestly there are a lot of beautiful places in France, but a personal favorite would be Biarritz, near the Spanish border. My whole extended family used to vacation there when I was a kid.

2.) do you prefer spending your holidays in your country or travel abroad?

Given the choice I’d prefer to travel abroad.

3.) does your country have access to sea?

Yes, via the English channel, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean sea.

4.) favourite dish specific for your country?

La blanquette de veau, a dish that was originally from Normandy :)

5.) favourite song in your native language?

Nooo, don’t do this to me. I hate picking favorites. I’ll just share one that has some personal significance for me and not call it my favorite ;)

6.) most hated song in your native language?

I don’t know that I really hate that many songs, but on a personal level I definitely never wanna hear Jusqu’ici tout va bien by Gims again as long as I live. It’s the theme song to a show my roommate watches every evening (which means I have to hear it Every.Day.) and it irks me that the title is a reference to one of the best scenes from my favorite movie when the song itself is so annoying. But maybe I just feel that way because I have to hear it so, so often.

7.) three words from your native language that you like the most?

Clair-obscur (chiaroscuro), l’engrenage (an ineluctable series of events) and it’s technically two words but l’amitié amoureuse. The literal translation would be ’friendship in love’ but it’s not actually a romantic love, it just describes basically having an intense but platonic crush on your friend. It’s one of my favorite concepts in the French language.

8.) do you get confused with other nationalities? if so, which ones and by whom?

No, we don’t, for better or for worse France is very uniquely French, lol.

9.) which of your neighbouring countries would you like to visit most/know best?

The one I know best is probably Switzerland, just because my great-uncle lived in Lausanne and we visited him a few times when he was still alive. Fun fact, he ran away to Switzerland after having an affair with a married woman because her husband threatened to kill him, lol.

The one I’d like to visit most is Italy, just because that’s where part of my family is from (from Parma) and I’ve never been.

10.) most enjoyable swear word in your native language?

Putain, which I use approximately 500 times a day XD

11.) favourite native writer/poet?

Listen, how am I meant to pick just one when there are so many??

Classic literature: Gustave Flaubert

Contemporary writer: Marie Ndiaye

Favorite poet: maybe Marguerite Yourcenar? Although my favorite poem might be L’Irréparable by Charles Baudelaire.

You didn’t ask but my favorite play is Le Cid by Corneille. Romeo and Juliet wishes XD

12.) what do you think about English translations of your favourite native prose/poem?

I think there’s just always something missing in translation tbh.

13.) does your country (or family) have any specific superstitions or traditions that might seem strange to outsiders?

I mean, I know outsiders often comment on the fact that French people kiss each other on the cheek to say hello (se faire la bise) but I don’t know if that counts as a strange tradition.

14.) do you enjoy your country’s cinema and/or TV?

Ehh, to me French cinema/TV is divided in two categories, really fucking good and really fucking awful, haha, there’s pretty much no in-between. A bad movie is called a navet (a turnip) by the way^^

15.) a saying, joke, or hermetic meme that only people from your country will get?

There’s a lot of jokes and memes that originated from the tv show Kaamelott that are going to be hard to decipher for people who haven’t seen it. Here’s one I think you’ll enjoy:

16.) which stereotype about your country you hate the most and which one you somewhat agree with?

The one I agree with is that French people complain all the time because we really, really do, haha. I don’t agree with the stereotype that French people are lazy though, we just don’t live to work but why are we acting like it’s a bad thing?? I don’t know, there are a lot of negative stereotypes about French people but tbh at the end of the day I don’t really care that much.

17.) are you interested in your country’s history?

Sure, it’s definitely interesting, but there’s so much of it it can be a little intimidating.

18.) do you speak with a dialect of your native language?

Nope.

19.) do you like your country’s flag and/or emblem? what about the national anthem?

Our emblem is le coq (the rooster), which you only see on the French team’s shirts, just like you’re most likely to see the flag when there’s a World Cup. It’s fine I guess, I don’t really have an opinion on it.

Our national anthem is kind of problématique but it does go hard. I’ll give it that. Like, if you’ve ever watched that scene from Casablanca where they sing La Marseillaise you’ll understand what I mean by that.

20.) which sport is The Sport in your country?

Mbappé Soccer :)

21.) if you could send two things from your country into space, what would they be?

I’ve been puzzling over this question for weeks, haha, and I’m still not sure what it means, like? Do you mean annoying people I’d launch into space or XD

22.) what makes you proud about your country? what makes you ashamed?

I don’t have a lot of national pride tbh. I’m ashamed about a lot of the public discourse, the islamophobia, the state violence, the way Nicolas Sarkozy and the media brought far-right talking points into the mainstream and now we’re all swimming in their shit.

I’m proud to know that French people are always ready to burn shit down though.

23.) which alcoholic beverage is the favoured one in your country?

According to Google it’s beer. I would’ve probably said wine.

24.) what other nation is joked about most often in your country?

Probably Belgium. There’s lots of belgian jokes.

25.) would you like to come from another place, be born in another country?

I don’t really think about stuff like that. Every country has its own issues, so it is what it is.

26.) does your nationality get portrayed in Hollywood/American media? what do you think about the portrayal?

Oh boy, does it ever. Every time a new season of Emily in Paris comes out you can bet French Twitter is gonna have a field day over this shit XD

27.) favourite national celebrity?

When you say national celebrity my first thought immediately goes to Jean-Jacques Goldman. Amazing songwriter, but also very well-known for his work with the Restos du Cœur, a French charity that was founded by his friend the comedian Coluche and les Restos famously do more for the poor than our own government ever would. Probably why Goldman gets elected personnalité préférée des Français every other year. (He also pays his taxes in France, unlike some people, and we always appreciate that here.)

28.) does your country have a lot of lakes, mountains, rivers? do you have favourites?

It does. I think the most famous are the river Seine, the Mont-Blanc (although that crosses over into Italy) and as far as lakes go I’m sure there are a lot but I can’t think of a really well-known one.

29.) does your region/city have a beef with another place in your country?

My city does have beef with another city, but I won’t say which for privacy reasons ;)

30.) do you have people of different nationalities in your family?

My paternal grandmother was from Laos and my paternal grandfather’s family immigrated from Italy (not him directly, but his mother). I think there’s some German (well, Prussian) and Flemish on my mother’s side. My aunt’s husband is also from Italy, and my eldest brother’s wife is from Madagascar. I think that’s all :)

Thank you so much for asking, friend, I can only hope I didn’t totally bore you to death XD

“Hi, I’m not from the US” ask set

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unhonestlymirror · 9 months

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Rating food of the countries I've been to, from West to East:

Disclaimer: it's veeery subjective

***

Spain🇪🇸 : 7/10. It's okay. I expected their fish and seafood to be better, tho. A LOT of relatively cheap fresh juices, 10/10 for health. They also make surprisingly amazing pasta and surprisingly average paella.

France🇫🇷: 9/10. Never visited cafes or restaurants there, but Carrefour has an incredible variety of good meat. I love their pineapple pie, too. There are a lot of products for vegetarians, Muslims, and, in general, different people who have different eating styles. There's a lot to see. And omg, their bazaar days are something worth attending: I still regret that I never tried clams with white wine.

UK🇬🇧 : 6/10. Not impressed. Something tells me that they deliberately make fish-n-chips that terrible. But I absolutely loved the strawberries under hot chocolate, which was sold by two cheerful Polish girls near Madam Tussaud museum.

Switzerland 🇨🇭: 6/10. Migros has nice buns with spinach and those Japanese "sandwiches", overall, your whole salary is gonna be spent on food. (Lithuania core lol😭) McDonald's there SUCKS.

Norway🇳🇴: 4/10. I expected a lot for some reason. Prices gonna cause you a heart attack, the quality is gonna give you a second heart attack. Also!!! THERE WAS NO FISH IN THE SHOPS EXCEPT THE CANNED!!! I was deeply injured. Norwegian salmon is super popular in Ukraine, how can they not have any normal fish in the big supermarkets...

Germany🇩🇪: 1/10. I may be just unlucky, but every time I visit Germany and pick a random cafe with lots of people(!), it has the worst food I've ever tasted in my life. It's like that scene from Desperate Housewives: "Really? A woman who orders Chinese food for Christmas dinner cooked a pineapple pie?" I understand now why Ukrainian women often marry Germans. My heart bleeds when I see what exactly you eat. I want to cover you with a blanket and cook you a normal soup.

Czech Republic 🇨🇿: 7/10. The soup was nice, ставлю вподобайку👍

Poland🇵🇱 : 8/10. Soup in bread, my beloved. Doughnuts were some kind of overcooked in oil, tho.

Montenegro🇲🇪: 10/10. I love you. I love your salads, your seafood, and I LOVE YOUR LEMON ICECREAM!!!!!

Slovakia🇸🇰: 7/10. I don't really remember what I ate, I am sorry. But I was really impressed with your supermarkets for some reason. Gotta visit it again.

Hungary🇭🇺: 6/10. It was my first time I've ever tried street food, and I liked it. You guys know how to cook meat.

Greece🇬🇷: 7/10. One day, I'll find the guy who can cook Karavidopsiha and beg them to cook it once again. Nice fish!!! I remember your arbutus honey as old women remember their best lovers. But. One time, a man served my family with unpeeled shrimps in batter. :/ What the hell was that? Is that some kind of a national dish I'm not aware of? Minus three points for such bullying.

Cyprus 🇨🇾: 7/10. I shouldn't be obsessed with your carob tree pastille that much.

Lithuania🇱🇹: 10/10. I love you. Although, I'd love to spend less money on food too. I love your Maxima and Rimi and Iki. I love your cafes. I love your bakery, I love your cocktails, I looooooove your soups, and I love your Asian food too. It's very easy to become an alcoholic with such delicious wines and tinctures.

Latvia🇱🇻: 11/10. Oh my god. Oh my god. I'm on my knees. Your cream chanterelle soup and Lidl croissants and marinated onion and šašlyk and fish and dairy products🛐🛐🛐. You guys know how to serve. I've never seen such pretty food designs anywhere. And of course, Lido. It brings me in tears of joy and makes me remember Puzata Hata. No, for real, is there any dish you don't know how to cook?

Finland🇫🇮: 7/10. That's okay. Nice street food.

Belarus ⚪️🔴⚪️: 9/10. Oh my dear Belarus, you're gonna be the best chef in Europe once you're free from russia. I wish I ate more machanka and drank your pine tincture when I had the chance. I love your chicory, it's a bit greyish, but it's much more delicious than an average chicory. Delicious meat in the shops. Other food is soviet-like, which makes me nauseous.

Ukraine 🇺🇦: ♾️/10. Вітчизно моя! Ти як здоров'я, наскільки ти цінна, тільки той знає, хто тебе втратив. I don't know if my favourite shops still work. I loved every single cafe I've been to, yes, even that shitty prorussian Mafia and Eurasia. I loved Puzata Hata. I loved Khlibna Kava, and its amazing cherry cupcakes. I loved Moloko Vid Fermera. I loved little kiosks with fresh Makadamia nuts and huge variety of vegetables and fruits. I loved Flagman and Silpo, Lvivśki croissants, and chocolate shops. I loved my seafood store. I loved giant frappes in Shevchenko Park. I loved my Continent with its old classical French background songs. I love my Japanese food stores. There are so many places I love. I used to find my bazaar so ugly and dirty, but I would give everything to buy the sea buckthorn jam from the cheerful old lady. But it's not gonna happen. My bazaar was shelled by russians to the ground.

Turkey🇹🇷: 9/10. Your Katmer, seafood soup and baked shrimps(?) are something 🛐.

Jordan🇯🇴: 7/10. Nice! You cook paella better than Spain, be proud of yourself. Although, I'd love to not be scared for my life as a woman all the time. Your bazaar seemed very interesting, but unfortunately, I don't speak Arabic. And I am a woman, which also sucks, I guess. I was totally covered in black, except for the face and hair, and people still stared at me like on a zoo exponate. McDonald's kinda sucks too, but not as much as in Switzerland.

Egypt🇪🇬: 7/10. It's okay. I've tasted only hotel food.

Sakartvelo🇬🇪 : 10/10. Our guide forgot about our existence, and we had to find any source of food to not die from hunger, so we went to your local bazaar and asked to fry some cheap fish. It had lots of bones, and I hate fish with bones, but I ate it all, and it tasted amazing.

Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦: 6/10. Most of the week, I just cooked some simple spiceless products like pasta and eggs from the small store. You are far from the level of grocery stores in Turkey. Although, your cold orange juice bottle saved my life from dying in the middle of the desert.

Qazaqstan 🇰🇿: 7/10. I don't really remember your supermarkets, I guess they were okay. But your bazaars are definitely something worth attending. Millions of varieties of honey with millions of tastes and very salty hard cheese Kurt.

#rambling #countries #food

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raisindave · 1 month

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[Chapter 34] Seeing the World Through Ballistic-Tinted Glasses

They had the grace to fly you first class, though the flight route was staggeringly long. Zig-zagging patterns meant you were touching down on nearly every continent, sometimes ordered to spend no more or less than 10 hours in an airport hotel room without leaving, then hurry onto the next plane. Laswell could be trying to shake someone off your trail, but more likely than not, it's just prudence. You were at the beck and call of whatever text came through your flip phone, usually directing you minutes after landing to which gate to head to and where to pick up your boarding pass. Even security was weird. You'd be 'selected for special search' by a female officer every time without fail. It's like each of these airports had express orders to handle your case with care.

Curiously, the name on your room didn't match your IDs, and none of them seemed to blink an eye. It always seemed to be a shift manager in suits and workwear dresses leading you down carpeted hallways to your room with their exquisitely polished shoes. Sure, the hotel rooms weren't spectacular, but they'll offer the legally mandated six hours of sleep you'll need before they can stick you back onto a plane. With more sliding glass doors and polished marble floors, you're back in the plainly coloured airports with a newly printed plane ticket from a code texted on your burner. It's gotten to the point where it's hard to say how long you've been travelling when you're flying to Egypt, to Switzerland, touching tires in Portugal, then finally finding the final stop.

Judging by the sea hugging this body of land, you gagued that you're likely in the Republic of Adal, a territory within Syria. It's a hotbed for gang violence, and it's made the news lately for their elections to separate from their national government. You spotted a decently sized town from the view up on the sandy hill that the small Cessna left you off on, shielding your eyes from the blistering afternoon sun. Pale beige brick buildings made up of houses and stores came closer into view as you made your way down the slippery dune. Sand had long since settled into your boots, but the closer you got to the town, the more oddly mesmerized you were by its placement. The city was backed in against the sprawling view of the Mediterranean Sea over one shoulder and an endless desert on the other. South is a marshland, west is the ocean, and the north and eastern directions are nothing but sprawling desert. It's such an odd harmony of ecosystems but an apparent hasty reaction to an oil deposit discovery. If it weren't for this small, hazy city, it would be entirely virgin wilderness.

A vibration in your back pocket, and you're already flicking open the dinky device. A private number texting three words. Observatory back door. It's unsettling to consider how easy it would be to kidnap you, but you were already calculating your route by squinting at the blurry horizon as the thought entered your mind. Bulbous white orbs from what looked like radomes were barely visible when you shielded your eyes at the right angle. If that's an observatory, it's a ten-minute walk. You made the effort to tie your standard-issue jacket over the body of your duffle bag, feeling the effects of the punishing sun on your skin. Spending the better part of three days almost entirely stationary didn't help either; feeling cool beads of sweat immediately heat on your skin. Hot sweat formed in a thin sheen over your skin, cursing your black tee shirt for its heat-absorbing properties.

The grand complex solidified into view, satellite dishes mounted on vast smooth grey stone made up what had to be said observatory. Chipping blue and white paint on tall metal doors was just beyond a chain-link fence; you could easily slip under a broad hole you'd found after a minute or two of searching. The chain-link rattled as you passed underneath, swinging your pack back over your shoulder that you'd thrown ahead of you. The arrogant Trespassers Will Be Shot sign above the steel door did nothing to stop you from pushing past. Cautious eyes fell on a staircase immediately after the door's opening, breathing in damp stagnant air that reeked of mildew and rust. Willing every muscle in your thighs to step silently, you reached the top of the stairs that greeted you to see an all-too-familiar face.

There stood Price. Smiling through his moustache, he'd probably have tipped his hat to you if his arms weren't crossed over muted green body armour. The faintest thread of suspicion that caught in the back of your mind immediately smoothed, allowing you to climb the last few steps of the stairs fully. With the weight of your pack being all too apparent in the sweltering heat, the cool interior urged you to slump your duffle bag onto the ground. Your chest was heaving, gasping in the slightly less suffocating air.

"Maybe you needed that rucking back in London," he smiled.

He'd have to settle for a glare as an answer, cracking a smile as you wiped slick sweat from your brow. The room was more like an open auditorium, where tiers of metal overpasses crisscrossed over what looked like concrete floors below, though it was too dark to tell. The only reason you could identify anything was thanks to a single camping lamp twisted alive next to a cluster of miscellaneous laptops, headphones, and cassettes. It's definitely a sign of the times, as if the chipping racing-stripe wall paint didn't already imply this place had been quickly built around the late '70s and looked like it was quickly abandoned by the '90s.

"Laswell will be here shortly to help you with settling in. In the meantime, welcome to Al Mazrah, the capital of the Republic of Adal, or so the locals want you to believe."

"Are we not in Syria?"

"Oh, we are," he raised his brows as he spoke, scratching his beard. "We're here because a gang here is taking responsibility for the London attacks. The Separatists."

"Attacks?" You queried.

"Attacks. There have been two more explosions since you left, plus an attack on the English embassy in Damascus. The Separatist gang leader in town is toasting to his role in these strikes often and loudly." His tone was grim and stern, not unlike how he's given orders on other missions.

The sound of heavy boots crashing down onto clambering metal from the shadows made your knees instinctively buckle into a lower stance. By the time your eyes even identified the direction of the sound, Price had the courtesy of pointing to the intruder with a glinting pistol.

"Fuck's sake Farah," your Captain sighed, flicking the safety back onto his pistol with his thumb.

"Keeping you on your toes, old man," A tall woman with dark eyes swaggered out of the shadows, palms raised. "You're making me nervous."

She spoke with a candour that caught you off guard, stern and unbothered. She obviously has a rapport with Price, considering he didn't just blast those sloping cheekbones off the plane of her skull. Adrenaline still prickled in your fingertips despite their relaxed attitudes, darting your eyes between them in confusion. He raised his hand to point in Farah's direction, rolling his head over to speak to you.

"Lua Grant, meet Farah Karim, leader of a local resistance movement. Farah, this is the linguist I told you about."

"I hear they call you Cricket," she extended her palm to yours, taking your hand in a crushing handshake.

"Some do," you smiled, nodding in acknowledgement.

"Farah's offered us her support on this," Price interjected, "she knows this territory better than we ever could. And she has a knack for handling warlord Separatists."

"We have common interests, but don't get soft on me, Captain," she smirked coyly. "SAS helped me once before, so I'm just answering a called favour. Plus, these warlords' arrogance is just irritating, and it'd be my pleasure to knock them off their pedestal."

"Why are they so eager to take responsibility for the attacks on British soil?" You finally let your throat succumb to the burning question that rattled in your swirling mind.

"To kick the hornet's rest," Farah's words tore into the conversation; even in dim light, her face was an image of passivity.

"If they're pitting the UK up against Syria, the ensuing conflict provides enough civil unrest to let the Republic of Adal establish a martial state of their own. It'd be a breeding ground for global terrorism and extremism," Price elaborated on Farah's assertion.

"These Separatists are a scourge of this city. They're embezzling, enlisting child soldiers, obsessed with power and keen to use violence on anyone who'll get in their way. They'd torch every hospital in the city if it meant they could make another pound." A fire in her eyes illuminated her disgust with this topic, a passion that spoke volumes to her character.

Farah seems like the kind of woman you'd hate to make an enemy. Bloodied knuckles poking through her fingerless gloves suggested she, too, has no problem using violence against those in her way, but she fights for a different side. She fights for the people, evident by her hesitance to accept foreign aid. Even based on Price's placement of trust, she'll get no opposition from you. This woman has no interest in the games that Presidents and Ministers play on the global stage, only interest in the people's suffrage; It's a simple philosophy that you can't help but envy.

"The issue is that people are being picked off, dying and disappearing in mysterious ways. Their power is slipping, and those London attacks are the Separatists' way of initiating their control under their new martial state," Price continued.

"The mayor tripped and fell on his switchblade 32 times the other day," Laswell's voice caught you off guard, catching her walk toward your gathering with an armful of papers.

"Such a shame," Farah cooed, her tone thick with venom and satire. Her posture was standoffish and cross-armed, but she was still undoubtedly poised.

You could do nothing but nod along, drinking in as much information as possible. Their sarcasm and frankness speak volumes to their attitude toward this topic despite this region being entirely foreign. You're flying blind on the words of a person with borrowed trust. Judging by the city's layout you spotted before you dodged that harsh sun, you're implied to be stationed in this observatory, over a kilometre away from the closest Al Mazrahian citizen.

"Price, could you show Cricket to her office," Laswell nodded to her colleague, turning to tilt her head to a set of swinging doors across the steel perimeter platforms.

Price wordlessly introduced you to your office for the next few days or months, which conveniently also doubled as a bedroom, considering the wiry metal bedframe in the corner. Paradoxically damp and dusty at the same time, the room was outfitted with those hulking wall-bolted computer displays that, at one point, displayed astronomy data. More red, white, and orange racing stripes ran along at a waist level among water-damaged drywall and a single lightbulb as a beacon for brightness which unfortunately didn't obey the command of the hollowed lightswitch. The problem with the wall-mounted computing goliaths is that they had limited desk space, so a dented sheet metal desk made up for where they fell short. Those laptops and headphones had been arranged attentively before a folding orange floral chair. The room was not small, though, surprisingly hosting a house's worth of couches and filing cabinets that were utterly caked in dust. More shadows that will keep you up at night.

Crossing the room to set your bag down came with a cacophony of squeals from protesting floorboards. Thin walls let you hear Price and Laswell chatting with Farah from down the hall, unable to perceive words, though another one of those CIA notebooks, fresh and pristine, ranked over your urge to eavesdrop. The smooth pleather cover creaked as you pried it open to unveil the printed text across the folded paper. Flipping it open between your fingers, you blinked dry eyes to read the short paragraph within.

Listen to the transmission on the laptop. It's a 24-hour broadcast, and the speaker comes in at random intervals. Keeping our thumbs on the pulse of the civilian chatter. Write the transcripts in this booklet and I'll get you a new one every morning. -L

Classic. You've done this exact task dozens of times before joining this team, so a blast of normalcy was almost unheard of. Mostly useless and rarely somewhat relevant, but a standard job for a military linguist, offering fresh transcripts for the higher-ups to dissect. Having you into the location connects you to the context that this broadcast is on a local wavelength, unfortunately eliminating the possibility of doing this in the comfort of that London barracks dorm. Sliding the orange chair across splintering floors, you pried open the laptop to prepare for your remarkably simple task while cracking your knuckles. As Laswell promised, the computer displayed stagnant audio waves of a vacant broadcast, slipping headphone pads over your ears as a formality.

The task reminded you of your time in Chita, listening in on broadcasts for this mysterious squad in that crumbling bunker. Thankfully no Graves this time, though many people have had a tendency of popping up out of the blue in the past hour. Where are the boys anyway? Where there's smoke, there's fire, and where there's Price, there's his squad- so they can't be too far. Your mind couldn't help but wander, waiting for this mysterious Arabic voice to cut through the silence. A tarp covered a small window across the room, allowing you to watch settling dust caught on the light beams of the setting desert sun. Just as you became enraptured in watching individual particles dance over the dwindling sunlight, a voice cut into the broadcast abruptly, commanding your attention. Clicking the blue pen you were provided alive, you straightened your posture in anticipation.

Hamza, 22, has been missing for three weeks. His mother misses him dearly, and please come home. Mohamed and Michel, two brothers aged 19 and 16, respectively, haven't been home in four months. A daughter, Fatima, 21, hasn't been spotted by any of her family in over ten days, and they're worried sick. All transcriptions you begrudgingly scrawled into a notebook. You knew full well what these transmissions really were. It's an impossible thing for any family to grapple with. Mothers and fathers were broadcasting the digital tombstones of their lost sons and daughters- all between the ages of 15 and 30, with the horrifying exception of a four-year-old boy.

That much was evident in the broadcaster's gravelly voice, taking long cigarette drags between every transmission. He never said his name, which was odd. No codename or callsign, just this faceless, jaded voice calling into the abyss. Like a shout into an empty dripping cave, except this time, there's no echo to acknowledge his existence. There's something charming in that, something that touches you deeply. This lone man is a lighthouse of hope in a town with such a hostile occupying force, only thinly veiled as protection. He's making his stand triumphantly, based on motives that are beyond your understanding.

By the time the broadcast cut out, your wristwatch read 01:43, meaning you'd spent almost the entire night listening to the dreadful intel. The pages of Laswell's booklet had long since become crinkled and wavy thanks to hours of writing, and the tender muscle on your palm screamed for relief. This bedroom had fallen harrowingly chilled, something you assumed resulted from an unforgiving desert climate with a short memory. Stacked sweaters and shirts from your pack gave you a cocoon of warmth that only barely kept chilled fingers from losing momentum. The overly springy bedframe caught your weight on its stiff mattress with squealing resistance. There wasn't even time to lie awake watching shadows behind the furniture stacked in the corner before you were fast asleep.

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jedijolras · 2 months

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4, 9, and 24 for the nation ask!! :D

lets go!!

4- (favourite dish) : its not traditional but french tacos ! theyre an insult to real tacos and theyre more like burritos but filled with fries and any kind of meat, toppings and sauce you want and its the best thing ever ! i dont really like any traditional french food except for pastries and desserts … desserts wise éclair aux chocolats and mille-feuilles are ON TOP of everything else

9- (which of your neighbouring countries would you like to visit) : italy!! ive never been there and everything looks so so nice … but i also want to go back to switzerland (mostly to compare the different languages and everything…)

24- (what other nation is joked about most often) : hmmm… we make fun of the u.s and england the most id say ?? also spain

#ade text #ask game!

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rockatanskette · 10 months

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You know what? Fuck it.

Girl Dinner

Carme Ruscalleda i Serra, who holds seven Michelin stars across her three restaurants in Catalonia and Japan, known for bringing traditional Catalan cuisine to an international audience.

Mashama Bailey, winner of the 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Chef and Chairwoman of the Edna Lewis Foundation, which preserves and celebrates the history of African-American cookery.

Zineb "Zizi" Hattab, the first vegan chef in Switzerland to be awarded a Michelin star for her restaurant KLE in Zurich; her cooking is noted for its intense flavors and complex balanced dishes in a casual setup.

Girl Math

Maryam Mirzakhani, who won the Fields Medal (the most prestigious award in mathematics) in 2014 for her work on the dynamics and geometry of Riemann surfaces.

Hee Oh, Vice President of the American Mathematical Society, who has worked extensively on counting and equidistribution for Apollonian circle packings, Sierpinski carpets and Schottky dances.

Svetlana Jitomirskaya, who co-solved the Ten Martini Problem in 2019 and won the Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics in 2020.

Girl Economics

Esther Duflo, co-founder of the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab at MIT, professor of Poverty Alleviation and Development Economics, and co-recipient of the 2019 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

Mariana Mazzucato, chair of the World Health Organization's Council on the Economics of Health for All and member of the United Nations' High-Level Advisory Board on Economic and Social Affairs.

Gita Gopinath, deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award in 2019 for her work as an economics academic.

Girls* are fucking rad actually. Pay them the respect they're due.

*This statement enthusiastically includes trans girls and women. Bigots kindly fuck off.

#girl dinner #girl math #girl economics #terfs dni #terfs die actually #'girl dinner' can be relatable but 'girl math' makes me want to set fires

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ask-the-hws-germanics · 1 year

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Opinions on potatos

Sweden: You know I invented hasselback potatoes, the best way to eat them.

Prussia: And you've set everyone off.

Belgium: No, made into frieten is the best way.

England: I have to argue simple mashed potatoes are the best.

Netherlands: and I have to argue the best is hutspot.

Germany: actually making kartoffelklöße is much better than your 'I beat the Spanish' dish.

Denmark: I think you're all forgetting about nrunede kartofler.

Switzerland: Right, just make them super unhealthy.

Denmark: Because rösti is so good for you.

Switzerland: You take that back!

Norway: Klubb is better than anything any of you make, I don't take criticism.

Iceland: Everyone in this family loves potatoes, they're an important part of a lot of our national or traditional foods. We've just had a centuries long debate over the best way to eat them.

Iceland: I agree with Harald, although brúnaðar kartöflur is a little different.

Austria: Hear me out; Latkes

Luxembourg: I personally like gromperekichelcher.

Liechtenstein: I don't actually like potatoes that much....

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ervbt · 8 months

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Switzerland: Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Pristine Landscape

Switzerland a picturesque European country is known for its stunning landscapes which history and vibrant culture in the middle ages, it was a patchwork of cantons, united through the Swiss confederation. Despite their independence, the Swiss remain neutral during conflicts, making the country a haven of diplomacy. In 1848, the Swiss federal state was established solidifying modern Switzerland's political structure. The country's policy of armed neutrality during the world wars therefore enhanced its reputation for peace, Swiss society is characterize by its diversity. The country's population is a mix of German, French, Italian, and Romans speakers. Its linguistic diversity reflects the coexistence of different cultural traditions and values, contributing to a multicultural society. The Swiss are known for their strong sense of community, punctuality, and precision.

During my visit in Switzerland I spend $70 to $100 per day and this includes staying in budget accomodations, eating budget restaurants, and using public transportation. But for mid range travelers, you can expect to spend around $200 to $300 per day. Switzerland has strict regulations that visitors should be aware of. It is essential and maintain cleanliness. Also, Switzerland is known for its impeccable public transportation, and understanding the timetables and ticketing system is crucial for an enjoyable visit.

Switzerland's culture and traditions are deeply rooted in its diverse linguistic regions, each in its own unique customs and heritage. And some of the Swiss culture and tradition are;

Religious Traditions:

Switzerland has a history of religious diversity. While the majority of Swiss are Christian, there is a significant Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu presence.

Customs and Etiquette:

Swiss people are known for their punctuality, precision, and a strong sense of community. Greeting with a firm handshake is customary, and addressing people by their title and surname is a sign of respect.

Architecture:

Swiss architecture reflects the country's diverse cultural influences. You can find charming chalets in the Alpine regions and historic cities with well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings.

Sports and Recreation:

Switzerland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering are popular activities in the Alps during the winter, while hiking and mountain biking are enjoyed in the summer

Arts and Crafts:

Switzerland has a strong tradition of craftsmanship. Swiss watchmaking is legendary for its precision and quality

Cuisine:

Swiss cuisine is influenced by neighboring countries. Fondue and raclette, both cheese-based dishes, are Swiss staples.

Music and Dance:

Switzerland has a rich musical tradition. The Alpine region is known for yodeling, and the accordion is a common instrument in Swiss folk music.

Festivals and Celebrations:

Fasnacht (Carnival): Fasnacht is a lively pre-Lenten carnival celebrated in various Swiss cities, with Basel's carnival being the most famous. Participants wear elaborate costumes and masks, and there are parades, music, and traditional foods.

Alpabzug (Cattle Descent): This is a traditional celebration when cows are brought down from the Alpine pastures to the valleys in late summer. It's marked by festive processions, music, and traditional alpine costumes.

Linguistic Diversity: Switzerland is a multilingual country with four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. This linguistic diversity is a significant part of Swiss identity.

The coexistence of these diverse cultural and traditional elements contributes to a rich and vibrant cultural tapestry. I had the opportunity to immerse in the unique blend of cultures and traditions while experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of the country.

Switzerland celebrates its national day, known as "Swiss National Day", on August 1st each year. This celebration marks the historic funding of the Swiss confederation in 1291. Festivities include fireworks, parades, and gatherings in towns and cities flags and enjoy traditional Swiss foods, including raclette and fondae. Swiss National Day is a time for the people of Switzerland to come together and commemorate their shared culture, history, and unity as a nation.

About the country's climate, it varies base on location and altitude. The alpine regions have cold winters and mild summers, making them ideal for winter sports. The lowlands experience milder winters and warmer summers. Swiss weather can be unpredictable, so its wise to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes.

Switzerland is a country that seamlessly combines a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Wether you are exploring its historic cities, indulging in delectable cuisine, or taking in the stunning Alpine landscapes, Switzerland offers a wonderful experience that I will never forget.

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dividedindiversity · 1 year

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hi! would you be open to adding a poll for swiss food as an outsider contest? i feel like there are so many good national foods (like fondue and raclette and rösti and linzer torte) and we're like EU's annoying neighbor who is geographically so in the middle of it that when you make a map of it there's a negative space in the shape of switzerland right there. it's also definitely cool if not!

Yeah, sure, if you can get ten suggested dishes together! Where would the EU be without the Mecca of tax evaders, the country that used to like to provide mercenaries to both sides in European wars, the country of Toblerone and Swiss cheese, the best country to base a European NGO out of? (I don't actually know exactly why that is, but a REMARKABLE number of NGO's which work on an European scale are based out of Swizerland. Is a tax thing? Or are there extra protections that make it harder to prosecute you for trying to help refugees or the environment or stuff?)

#ask

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the-bangtext-is-rich · 2 years

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RM in Basel: Notes from Semi-Locals

As we live just an hour away from Basel, imagine our emotional devastation upon finding out that RM visited this city and our country. After losing our minds over his Swiss insta posts, we’re now analyzing his vlog.

First of all, Basel is a city that we’ve visited many times and which is very close to our hearts. When we were kids, Basel was our metropolitan escape from our rural purgatory. Clearly, this was RM’s rural escape from his metropolitan purgatory.

We are sure that coming from Seoul, Basel feels like a rural town. Within Switzerland, Basel is actually one of the main cities. It’s a center of culture and a university town. It’s also an international hub (by Swiss standards) as it lies on the border between Switzerland, France, and Germany. Additionally, it has one of Switzerland’s three airports (it’s the smallest of the three).

Art Basel is extremely famous and attracts a huge artsy crowd. We’re very disappointed in ourselves for having mis-foreseen Tae at the Montreux Jazz Festival and not RM at Art Basel.

When we watched RM’s vlog, we recognized a lot of the places, and on our latest shopping trip to Basel, we looked for the café he is at in this bf pic:

Not only did we find it (turned out to be a v random Italian restaurant), but we also accidentally ended up stumbling on a lot of places that appear in the vlog (minus the museums, lol, not into that) just because Basel is so small.

For reference, here is a handy (and totally not unhinged) map of some places RM went to in central Basel:

Just to give you an idea of how small Basel is, walking from the Kunstmuseum (bottom of the map) to Art Basel (top right) takes about 17 minutes.

You might notice that RM seemed to have kept a pretty short radius for his activities (as represented in the vlog -- we don’t know what he was up to after hours 😏). We actually recognized the hotel he was staying in, and funnily enough, it’s on the same street as Art Basel as well as the ramen bar, which he visits twice, and The Pub, which he also visits twice in the vlog.

Not on this map are the SBB train station, the Beyeler Foundation, the Tinguely Museum, the Vitra Design Museum (which is fuckin France) as they are further out. To go to these places, he took the tram, a quintessential feature of the Basel landscape.

He easily could have taken the taxi, and it warms our heart that he chose instead to take public transport, which can be difficult to navigate (especially in German).

As for the food, we can’t believe this is what the hotel serves for breakfast.

There’s nothing particularly wrong with this, we were just surprised that the restaurant would serve such non-Swiss breakfast foods (also, that croissant looks janky as hell) (no hate tho). The only Swiss things about this breakfast are the orange juice coupled with the coffee.

From what we can see in the rest of the vlog, it doesn’t seem like RM had the opportunity of eating the Swiss national dishes of raclette (melted cheese on potatoes) and fondue (bread dipped in melted cheese). We do think this merits another trip to Switzerland, if only for the culinary cheese journey (P.S. we happen to have mastered these dishes perfectly; come visit us, Namjoon).

We thought a lot about how RM must have been feeling, as he was here only a day or two after the Festa 2022 video dropped and Hybe lost 1 million in stocks. We hope it was a peaceful refuge from the deluge and that he found comfort in this rural town that doesn’t stock any k-pop albums apart from two copies of BE in the biggest CD shop in town.

To conclude, seeing RM casually stroll through the streets of our land, in one of our favorite cities, was incredibly surreal and astoundingly heartbreaking. Basel, of all places, was the last city we were expecting him in. We have never been the same since.

#rm #namjoon #kim namjoon #bts #rm in switzerland #switzerland #bts vlog #rm vlog #basel #bts in switzerland

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rabbitcruiser · 3 months

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National Cheese Fondue Day

National Cheese Fondue Day is celebrated each year on April 11. Since cheese is such a popular (and delicious) ingredient, this day recognizes a food holiday that many enjoy. Fondue is a dish of melted cheese or other ingredients, served in a communal pot, known as the caquelon. This pot is placed over a small portable stove known as the réchaud. People then dip the bread into the cheese using long-stemmed forks. Meat, crackers, and vegetables may also be dipped into the cheese [No, just no. No way!]. Cheese fondue consists of a blend of cheeses, wine, and seasoning. It is a common delicacy that is available at most restaurants and can be easily made at home.

History of National Cheese Fondue Day

Fondue has been around for centuries, but the original cheese fondue recipe was only published in 1875. Before this, there was a dish called ‘fondue’ that resembled a scramble, which was a mixture of eggs and sometimes truffles. In 1905, cornstarch was introduced to Switzerland which led to eggs and truffles being removed and fondue becoming a cheese-based dish. The fondue is cooked on a stove and it is then poured into the Caquelon (fondue pot) where it is served at the table.

It is not known who made the first cheese. Some records suggest that it might have been accidentally made by an Arabian merchant. The merchant put his supply of milk into a pouch made from a sheep’s stomach, as he traveled across the desert. The rennet in the lining of the pouch, combined with the heat of the sun, caused the milk to separate into curd and whey. He found that the whey satisfied his thirst and that the cheese had a delightful flavor that kept him full for a long time.

Several different traditions go with eating fondue. One is the eating of the crispy cheese left at the bottom of the pot — it is referred to as ‘la religieuse.’ Another tradition is the custom of what happens when your cube of bread falls off of your fork. Ideally, if someone’s bread falls off, they have to buy a round of drinks for the table!

National Cheese Fondue Day timeline

80,000 - 10,000 Years Ago

The Domestication of Dairy Animals

Primarily sheep are domesticated for the human consumption of its milk.

100 B.C.

Cheese Making in the Roman Empire

The Romans document and find ways to perfect the process of cheesemaking.

17th Century

Cheese Manufacturing in America

The knowledge of cheese making is brought to the new world.

1900 -1950

The Spread of Commercial Cheese Factories

Cheese production rises to 148 million pounds in 1910 and 561 million pounds in 1950.

National Cheese Fondue Day FAQs

Which country's national dish is cheese fondue?

The Swiss Cheese Union declared cheese fondue Switzerland’s national dish in 1930.

What are good dippers for cheese fondue?

Bread is a common dipper used for cheese fondue. However, there are other options to choose from such as french bread, breadsticks, and croutons. sourdough, pumpernickel, and bagels can also be used.

Is cheese fondue healthy?

Fondue, as well as cheese fondue, can be unhealthy. A classic fondue starts with rich cheeses that are blended with spices and white wine. This blend creates a thick, savory sauce for dipping chunks of bread and other morsels.

How To Celebrate National Cheese Fondue Day

Host a fondue game night: Invite your friends over for a fondue game night on National Cheese Fondue Day. If someone’s bread falls into the cheese, they will have to buy everyone a round of drinks. You can also come up with your own games.

Post on social media: Post a photo of the cheese fondue that you made on social media with the hashtag #NationalCheeseFondueDay and encourage your friends to do the same.

5 Facts About Cheese That Will Blow Your Mind

Cheese can be addictive: Cheese contains a chemical that can trigger opioid receptors in the human brain.

There are more than 1,800 varieties of cheese: It would take about five years if you tried one cheese per day.

Cheddar is the most popular type of cheese: Cheddar cheese is a hard, smooth-textured cheese made from cow’s milk.

Pule is the world’s most expensive cheese: A pound can be sold for as much as $600 to $1,000.

Cheese is one of Pizza Hut’s main ingredients: Pizza Hut uses about 300 million pounds of cheese annually.

Why We Love National Cheese Fondue Day

It is easy to make: Cheese fondue is probably one of the quickest and easiest dishes to make. National Cheese Fondue Day lauds a dish that despite its simplicity, is delicious.

A day off from cooking: If you have been wanting to take a day off from cooking, then National Cheese Fondue Day is the perfect day to do so. Whip up this simple yet filling dish in a matter of minutes.

You can spend time with friends: Cheese fondue nights bring friends together. National Cheese Fondue Day is a great excuse to share a meal with your loved ones.

Source

All you need is: Grated Fondue cheese, corn starch, white wine, Kirsch (clear, colorless fruit brandy traditionally made from double distillation of morello cherries), garlic and pepper. Please, don’t use the prepared convenience food one!

#National Cheese Fondue Day #NationalCheeseFondueDay #11 April #homemade Cheese Fondue #Swiss food #Christmas Eve dinner #bread #original photography #old pics #Christmas Tree #our traditional Christmas Eve dinner #national day #it's still a very common dish in Switzerland #I prefer Moitié-Moitié

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juphanie · 1 year

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Rösti or rööschti (Alemannic German: is a Swiss dish consisting mainly of potatoes, sautéed or shallow-fried in a pan. It was originally a breakfast dish, commonly eaten by farmers in the canton of Bern, but is now eaten all over Switzerland and around the world. The French name röstis bernois directly refers to the dish's origins.

Many Swiss people consider rösti to be a national dish.

Random pics including our Airbnb, random Tesla store, night view of the river, more of the fountain, Lego Large Hadron Collider, and determined, pregnant Stephanie still huffing it up steep staircases.

Back on the plane, heading to our next destination!

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homesteadsurvival · 5 days

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Imagine a world where potatoes grew on trees—surely, they would be considered the national fruit of Switzerland. Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide array of dishes. They are commonly included in soups, mashed as a side for baked chicken, added to beef stew, and featured in cottage pie with ground […]

#Food Dehydrating #Food Storage & Skills #Dehydrated #hash browns #potaotes

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roomchailimited · 7 days

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Alpine Escapades: Roomchai's Schengen Tours for Nature Enthusiasts

Exploring the Alps is an adventurer's dream, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse hiking trails, and an immersive experience in nature. For travelers from Bangladesh, Roomchai's Schengen Tours provide the perfect gateway to discover the Alpine wonders. This guide delves into planning your journey, the best hiking routes, and practical tips for making the most of your Alpine adventure.

A Bangladeshi Traveler's Dream

As a nature enthusiast from Bangladesh, the allure of the Alps is irresistible. The majestic mountains, serene valleys, and vibrant cultures promise an experience like no other. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, the Alps offer something for everyone.

Preparing for Your Adventure

Visa Requirements

Before embarking on your Alpine journey, ensure you have a valid Schengen visa. This visa allows travel across multiple European countries, including those within the Alpine region such as Switzerland, France, Italy, Austria, and Germany. Roomchai offers comprehensive visa assistance to simplify the process.

Best Time to Visit

The Alps are stunning year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests:

Summer (June to September): Ideal for hiking, climbing, and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and green.

Winter (December to March): Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the snow-covered scenery.

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (October to November): Quieter seasons with mild weather, ideal for peaceful explorations and fewer tourists.

Packing Essentials

When packing for the Alps, consider the season and activities you plan to undertake. Essentials include:

Hiking Gear: Durable hiking boots, comfortable clothing, and a reliable backpack.

Weather Protection: Layered clothing, waterproof jackets, hats, and gloves.

Safety Items: First aid kit, map, compass, and a fully charged mobile phone.

Other Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and energy snacks.

Top Hiking Routes

Iconic Trails

The Alps offer a variety of hiking trails for all levels:

Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland): A renowned trail circling the Mont Blanc massif, featuring stunning views and diverse terrains.

Haute Route (France, Switzerland): A high-level trek from Chamonix to Zermatt, known for its challenging paths and spectacular scenery.

Adlerweg (Austria): Also known as the Eagle Walk, this long-distance trail showcases Austria's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

National Parks

Explore the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the Alps' national parks:

Swiss National Park (Switzerland): Switzerland's oldest national park, offering well-marked trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Hohe Tauern National Park (Austria): The largest national park in Austria, featuring glaciers, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.

Parc National de la Vanoise (France): Known for its breathtaking landscapes and extensive hiking routes.

Cultural Highlights

In addition to natural wonders, the Alps are rich in cultural and historical sites:

Chamonix (France): A historic alpine town, offering a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Innsbruck (Austria): Known for its charming old town and surrounding mountain scenery.

Zermatt (Switzerland): Home to the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt combines natural beauty with modern amenities.

Practical Tips

Health and Safety

Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of water, especially during strenuous hikes.

Altitude Awareness: Be mindful of altitude sickness and acclimatize gradually.

Local Regulations: Respect local guidelines, trail markings, and wildlife protection rules.

Local Cuisine

Experience the culinary delights of the Alps:

Swiss Fondue: A traditional dish of melted cheese, perfect for sharing.

Austrian Schnitzel: A must-try dish, typically served with potato salad.

Italian Polenta: A versatile dish made from cornmeal, often served with meats and vegetables.

Sustainable Travel

Eco-Friendly Practices: Follow Leave No Trace principles, dispose of waste properly, and minimize your environmental impact.

Support Local Communities: Choose local guides, purchase regional products, and engage with community-based tourism initiatives.

Conclusion

Embarking on an adventure through the Alps is a dream come true for nature lovers. Roomchai's Schengen Tours provide the perfect framework to explore this majestic region, offering support and services to ensure a seamless journey. From hiking iconic trails to savoring local cuisine, the Alps promise an enriching and unforgettable experience. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to embrace the adventure of a lifetime. Safe travels!

#roomchailimited #travel #traveltips #hike #europa

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