Because I write about travel, I’m frequently asked about my favorite place in the world. Stated this way, it’s an almost impossible question, as the answer depends on so many factors. My favorites today aren’t the same as they were 20 years ago. As I’ve been to and lived in more places, my opinions have changed. And I’d have to know if the questioner meant my favorite place to live, or visit, in summer or winter, alone, or with someone.

But of one thing, I’m fairly sure: If I ever stop traveling and settle down to a less hectic life that I will refuse to call retirement, it will be in the town of Zuoz, in Switzerland’s Engadine Valley. It’s just a few miles from St. Moritz, and is the loveliest small town you can ever fall in love with. You can walk around it in about half an hour, savoring its lovely old buildings and its cobblestone streets.

And with a little courtesy on my part, the locals have always been entirely friendly and welcoming – genuinely so, I believe, because although a goodly number of visitors find their way to Zuoz, the town seems to have an independence of spirit that prevails throughout the year. I visit it as often as I can but haven’t moved in yet. But unless the finger of fate intervenes, one day you’ll be able—and welcome—to knock on my cottage door, and I’ll have the pleasure of agreeing with you as you go into raptures over the loveliness of Zuoz.

Now, I’d enjoy hearing what your favorite place is, and why.

Your "bag packed" blog editor,

Paula Gifford