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From New York to Zürich with MetroNeXt+

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

When it comes to the world's largest railway stations, Grand Central Terminal in New York City undoubtedly ranks as number one with the most platforms: 44 platforms with 67 tracks!

For comparison, Zürich's main station ranks as number six with its 26 tracks (which is pretty incredible given the small size of Switzerland)...

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

But just this past weekend, Grand Central Terminal has added an extra track with non-stop service to Zürich, Switzerland. Seemingly produced for a Hollywood set, a most realistic subway entrance replica has been set up - baffling even some station security guards! This subway stop is the main focal point of MetroNeXt+ here at the Zürich Meets New York Festival, turning many a head and compelling otherwise busy New Yorkers to take a closer look...

 

Science and Technology Made in Zürich

As part of this joint interactive exhibit among the University of Zurich, the ETH Zurich, and Switzerland Tourism, MetroNeXt+ has temporarily transformed Vanderbilt Hall into a virtual platform!

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

Several interactive exhibits caught our eyes: For one, a special iPad application allows visitors to experience augmented reality firsthand. By simply pointing an iPad's camera at different locations in the hall, visitors can unlock many surprising animations inspired by Zürich.

Here is an example of a virtual animation at MetroNeXt+:

 
Meet yours truly with Eva, a virtual rock star scientist! This EU funded project is part of FIcontent where ETH Zürich is involved in developing novel gaming technologies for the future internet.

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

 
The various augmented reality experiences were definitively a highlight for us, and we are convinced that they are showcasing the many groundbreaking technologies developed at Zürich's universities.

 

Large Scale Photographs by Yann Arthus-Bertrand

There are other ways to journey to the heart of Switzerland, too: Switzerland Tourism has commissioned a series of breathtaking panoramic photographs by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. This award winning French photographer is well known for his Earth from Above documentary.

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

Last summer, the photographer has flown over Switzerland's most iconic landmarks like the Rhine Falls, the Jungfrau or the Matterhorn in order to capture their raw natural beauty. From observing many hurried New Yorkers stop to gaze at the large bird's-eye photographs at MetroNeXt+, we believe that Yann Arthus-Bertrand has succeeded in transporting that beauty from Switzerland to New York City.

Fortunately, you can vieZurich Meets New York - Our Sponsorsw more than 120 panoramic images directly on the MySwitzerland website!

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

 

More Information

- Zürich Meets New York Events
- Swiss Consulate General New York Blog

Zurich Meets New York - MetroNext+

Many thanks to our partners who helped to make this trip possible:

Zurich Meets New York - Our Sponsors

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

2 comments

    • Hi Arthur! The events as part of “Zürich Meets New York” were well organized, intelectually stimulating and all around fun! I am glad that this article has transported this for you!

      Dimitri

Dimitri Burkhard

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