Rescued - 19th June

By the time we were discussing our next move, the idea of hitchhiking to the next big town had been ruled out by Santanu, as it didn’t seem very safe. Despite my suggestion of catching a ride with some seemingly older, perhaps more trustworthy folks, it seemed unlikely until a car stopped and offered us a lift. Without a second thought, and with big smiles, we gratefully accepted. The car’s occupants, whom we instantly felt a connection with, looked like they were straight out of a storybook.

Santanu and I squeezed into the back of the small car with our bags, as the trunk was already packed to the brim. It was a delightful stroke of luck—my wish for a ride from kind, older individuals had come true. The couple, Heidi and her husband, were incredibly gentle and warm, their kindness almost beyond words. Heidi was especially talkative, sharing stories about their travels and their experiences in India, which made for engaging conversation. Their initial curiosity about why two Indians were at the bus station led to a lively exchange, further enhancing our journey.

Originally, our plan was to travel to Domodossola in Italy and then continue to Locarno from there. But, as fate would have it, they were heading to Locarno as well. The drive was filled with fascinating conversation and a brief coffee break in Vigezzo. We stopped at a charming bistro, and took in the main attraction of the village: the “Santuario della Madonna del Sangue.” The church, originally built in the 14th century, boasts a Byzantine style that contrasts with the more common Gothic architecture found in the region.

Upon our arrival in Locarno, Heidi and her husband (David) were so concerned for our well-being that they helped us find a hotel by consulting their local friends and even dropped us off there. Their kindness was a shining example of Swiss hospitality and made our trip all the more memorable.