Explore the World

Welcome back to another episode of A'lil Hoohaa's monthly photo blogging challenge. 

This month has been full in the best possible way: an offsite seminar at a stunning Austrian resort, two Mother’s Days — one spent with my son and husband (pancakes and alpacas included), and one with my Mom, visiting some of the oldest trees in Switzerland. I climbed the stairway to heaven, and I joined my fellow hockey fans in welcoming the Swiss national team home, proudly celebrating their silver medals at this year’s Men’s Worlds — once again!

That alone could easily qualify as “exploring the world,” which happens to be this month’s theme.

But as luck would have it, I have even more to share. I quite literally explored the world — or rather, the world came to me. Let me explain.

To celebrate the end of the school year, the Inter-Community School in Zumikon holds an annual International Festival. We first attended years ago when my friend Crystal’s sons were students there. Though they’ve long since returned to the U.S., my fascination with the event  remains strong.

Parents and students host booths representing their respective countries, and it’s always vibrant, flavorful, and fun. Typically, at least 20 nations are showcased. So how does one choose just five photos?

🇸🇪 Sweden is a recurring favorite of mine. Perhaps our recent trip to Stockholm made me especially drawn to the scent of kanelbullar and the sounds of ABBA. A woman wearing a Tre Kronor jersey and I agreed — how great it would’ve been if our teams would meet again in the final. Well… almost!

🇮🇹 Italy never disappoints. Their booth could easily be mistaken for a pop-up restaurant. Cocktails, pasta, pizza, espresso, dessert — and yes, they even brought fresh basil. Bravissimo!

🇳🇱 The Netherlands offered their signature poffertjes (mini pancakes), cubes of what was most likely Gouda cheese, wooden clogs, and orange soccer jerseys. (Since there were children wearing them, I’ll skip sharing those pictures — but trust me, the setup was full of charm.)

🇩🇰 Denmark served up a cheerful sheet cake topped with gummy candy, but what really stood out to me was the thoughtfulness behind their offerings — they even included a gluten-free pastry. And then there was the “How to Hygge” book on display. For Danes, hygge is more than just a trend — it’s a core part of national identity, centered on well-being, connection, and savoring the moment.

Another nation renowned for their joie de vivre — or rather, savoir vivre — is 🇫🇷 France. While most other booths were busy grilling, mixing, and mingling, these ladies were simply… having a moment. And it involved champagne.

This year, I sorely missed 🇨🇦 Canada’s contribution. In past festivals, they’ve brought Nanaimo bars, maple-flavored treats, and even set up a hockey goal for kids to try out their shooting skills. So as a bonus, allow me to share a throwback of little Colin, 4.5 years old, working on his stick handling:

Speaking of... A Canadian friend recently sent me a reel of what might be the most Canadian citizenship test ever: A guy with a hockey stick, calmly deflecting a barrage of flying pucks — along with random household items like a mop, wastebasket, and a rogue Swiffer. He didn’t flinch. Just laser focus on the pucks. 

We both agreed: Our sons would pass with flying colors. Us? Total fail.

It made me wonder. If I weren’t already Swiss, I’d probably struggle with our actual test, which leans more toward ancient history and cantonal trivia than practical life skills (yodelling, anyone?). 

So what should count? Knowing the year of the Helvetic Republic, or showing up with curiosity, kindness, and maybe a good fondue recipe?

What do you think — what would be a fair (and maybe slightly fun) way to earn citizenship anywhere?

I hope you enjoyed exploring the world with me! I’m glad I made the trip — even if it did throw off my schedule a bit.

As always, don’t forget to check out the posts from my fellow bloggers participating in this month’s challenge!