Hospitality Knows No Borders

From the Hills of Kerala to the Alps of Switzerland

Indo Swiss Heritage Villa

For nearly three decades, Vanilla County has

welcomed guests from around the world into our home in the hills of Kerala. Many have arrived as strangers and left as lifelong friends. This July, the roles were beautifully reversed.

My parents travelled to Switzerland at the invitation of our dear friends, Adrian and Karin Menzi, becoming the very first guests at the newly opened Indo-Swiss Heritage Villa. Their journey wasn't simply a holiday—it was a celebration of a friendship that had grown over the years through hospitality, shared experiences and mutual respect.

Nestled in the peaceful farming village of Niederoesch, the Indo-Swiss Heritage Villa is a beautifully restored 300-year-old farmhouse full of history and character. My parents stayed in a spacious private apartment within the home, complete with every modern comfort, yet retaining the warmth and charm of traditional Swiss living. From the moment they arrived, Adrian and Karin made them feel less like visitors and more like family.

Farmers market

Over the next fourteen days, Adrian became not only their host but also their guide, driving them across some of Switzerland's most breathtaking landscapes in his spacious and comfortable van. They explored the medieval streets of Bern, travelled by train to Interlaken, enjoyed scenic boat rides, ventured into the mountains, wandered through peaceful villages and admired the picture-perfect countryside that Switzerland is famous for.

One of the highlights was visiting a traditional cheese-making factory, where they learnt about the craftsmanship behind one of Switzerland's most iconic products. They also enjoyed tasting world-famous Swiss chocolates and quickly fell in love with the

fresh breads and pastries from the local bakeries.

Yet, the memories they treasure most were not just about the places they visited, but the people they met. Adrian and Karin are both passionate about cooking, and many evenings were spent gathered around the dining table, enjoying delicious home-cooked meals and long conversations. Their hospitality extended beyond their own home. Karin's father welcomed them for dinner one evening, while Adrian's brother and his family hosted them on another, making my parents feel like part of the family rather than guests passing through.

One of the most meaningful moments of the trip was when my mother had the opportunity to share a piece of Kerala with their Swiss friends. She conducted a traditional Kerala cooking session, preparing biriyani for Adrian, Karin and their friends. What began as a cooking demonstration soon became an evening of laughter, stories and cultural exchange, reminding everyone that good food has a wonderful way of bringing people together.

Another heartwarming surprise came when they met one of our own former guests from Vanilla County, who now happens to be Adrian's neighbour. It was a wonderful reminder of how friendships formed through travel continue long after a holiday has ended.

Among all their experiences, one memory stands above the rest. Without telling them in advance, Adrian arranged a special orchestral performance at his local church. Sitting inside the beautiful church, listening to music performed especially for them, became one of the most emotional and unforgettable moments of their journey.

With Adrian and Karin

When they returned home, we naturally asked what impressed them the most. Their answers were simple.

"The trains were unbelievably punctual."

"The villages were so peaceful."

But the words that stayed with us the most were these:

"We felt like family rather than tourists."

Those few words perfectly capture the essence of their journey.

Switzerland and Kerala may be separated by thousands of kilometres, but the values that make a place feel like home are remarkably similar. Kindness, generosity, shared meals and genuine friendships transcend borders and cultures.

As my parents returned to Vanilla County, they brought home far more than photographs and souvenirs. They returned with wonderful memories, renewed friendships and a deeper appreciation for something we have always believed.

True hospitality isn't defined by where you are in the world. It's defined by how you make people feel.

A heartfelt thank you to Adrian and Karin Menzi for opening not only the doors of their beautiful home, but also their hearts. We are grateful for your friendship and for giving my parents an experience they will cherish for the rest of their lives.