mountains

Meet the Host: Hue

· 2 min read ·

I first met Hue while training for a ninja warrior competition in 2016. No really, I’m serious. Our company (my previous, his current) had put together a ridiculous competition/summer party where people could opt into throwing themselves through an obstacle course in front of hundreds of their coworkers. Hue and I are both the kind of people that are crazy enough to say “yes” to such a prospect. Leading up to the competition we had opportunities to train at an American Ninja Warrior gym. Other than the unique athletic opportunity, it was a pretty stellar way to meet new friends— and so we did!

Hue in his happy place on a hammock
Hue in his happy place on a hammock

Anyone who knows this guy would remark on his kind-heartedness, his creativity, and his impeccable style. James and I both feel very fortunate for the easy and strong friendship we have with Hue, and visiting him in Switzerland was something we were eager to do since his move last August!

Our visit to Zurich was full of meals and hangs on the porch, wandering Hue’s neighborhood, and working on his apartment redecoration (thanks IKEA!). Hue was not only a great resource for honing in on the style of our website redesign, he also made us feel right at home by introducing us to his awesome social circle and whipping up a delicious recipe he learned from his Italian friends.

Day 1 in Zurich, checking out this river spot just a stone’s throw from Hue’s flat
Day 1 in Zurich, checking out this river spot just a stone’s throw from Hue’s flat

Here’s our meet the host Q&A with this great human:

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

My favorite thing about living here is the access to nature! Whether it’s the mountains or lakes, you are not far from nature!

Teach us some local slang …

Grüezi, ich rede kei dütsch = Swiss German for “Hi, I don’t speak German,” hehe

Where is the best place you’ve traveled to?

In Asia, it has to be Vietnam. Amazing food, such nice people, and access to nature and city. In Europe, Amsterdam is my favorite so far. The art, music, cheese … and don’t get me started on the stroop waffles.

What makes you laugh?

  • Pictures of dogs attempting to catch snacks with their mouth
  • Europeans trying to understand American culture
  • Italians

What is your favorite meal of the day? What would you eat/drink during it?

Breakfast !! Just a classic eggs, toast, bacon, and coffee and just a warm feeling.

Describe what it’s like to host Sheila & James in three words…

Just like family.

Where can people follow your cool life? @huehefnerjk

A trip back from IKEA, with the essential house plant
A trip back from IKEA, with the essential house plant
Sunshine-y photo from Hue’s visit to Boston in March 2019
Sunshine-y photo from Hue’s visit to Boston in March 2019

Adventure travel blog by James Simone & Sheila Murray. Travel along with them on their backpacking trip(s) as they actively explore the American West, Europe and beyond:

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