The beat went on and on and on. The heart of the city of Zürich beat in sync with the hearts of 950,000 people filling the streets and bridges along the lake for the annual Street Parade; "a Demonstration for Love, Peace, Liberty, Generosity and Tolerance." Sidewalks and cafes were thick with people. Orders were placed by those taking a parade break--or watching delighted and sometimes surprised as I was--for espresso, the popular soft drink Rivella, beer or wine. Even as an observer, I felt a part of the parade, as the enormous "stereo" speakers throughout the city sent the pulse through to my bones. I enjoyed every minute I was there, and was glad to have witnessed such an enormous and harmonious gathering of people. It wasn't bad either watching the Swiss cops on roller blades race by wearing their summer shorts.

The Zûrich Street Parade began in 1992 with only 1,000 people. It is now one of the largest "techno" parties in the world. If people watching is your thing, book your vacation to Switzerland for the second Saturday of August and head to Lake Zürich.