NT KURIOCITY
With the aim of giving students international exposure to culinary techniques, food culture, hospitality education, and heritage experiences, the V. M. Salgaoncar Institute of International Hospitality Education, Raia, organised an 11-day study tour to Switzerland, France, and Italy.
The Switzerland Study Tour 2025 was led by professor Irfan Mirza and supported by chef Sebastian Breitinger and Semele Sardesai.
The group of 15 students that made the trip included Aaron Misquita, Alysia Desouza, Dillon D’silva, Endrea Fernandes, Fiona Rangel, Harsh Bhilare, Kay D’Souza, Lakshaya Deenan, Natasha Hede, Salome Da Costa, Samuel Maben, Shrey Valaulicar, Shreya Keshkamat, Suellen Martins, and Suhani Khatkar.
Their journey began with a flight from Goa to Zurich, followed by a drive to Alsace in France. There, they visited two wineries where they learned about both traditional and large-scale wine production and enjoyed wine tastings. They also explored a picturesque French village and climbed a fort tower.
In Rheinfelden, Switzerland, the group visited the Feldschlösschen Brewery, where they got an inside look at beer-making and sustainable practices. In Montreux, they walked along Lake Geneva and spent time with a local family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying live music.
At César Ritz Colleges, they explored professional kitchens, a library with rare cookbooks, and the famous Anton Mosimann collection. Alumni guided them through the campus, and the group took part in a tasting at a local vineyard. A picnic with homemade food by a local host closed the day on a warm note.
They also went Broc and Gruyères, where they visited the Cailler chocolate factory and learned how traditional Swiss cheese is made. They later enjoyed a traditional meal and explored a medieval castle.
The group later hiked to Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls, explored the mountain village of Gstaad, and shared quiet lakeside walks. In Bern, they visited Bear Park and the Swiss Parliament, learning about the country’s political system and conservation efforts.
In Locarno, the students enjoyed Italian food and visited Lake Locarno. A day trip to Lake Como in Italy featured a walking tour, visits to historic sites, shopping, and Italian gelato.
The group also travelled through the scenic Gotthard Pass to Luzern and then Zurich. In Luzern, they visited the famous Chapel Bridge and a popular chocolate store. They ended the tour in Zurich, where they went on a walking tour and explored the Old Town.
