This is the undiscovered art capital of Europe: the Kunst Museum has great 20th-century art, Klein, de Kooning, Picasso; The Beyeler Foundation, a tram ride away in Riehen, is mesmeric with its Giacomettis; the Art Fair in June is world famous.

Basel itself is a haven for walking, browsing, crossing the Rhine on self-propelled ferries, safe as houses with loads of character, friendly people who will speak English, French, or even German when not uttering the incomprehensible Swiss-Deutsch.

You will never find anybody you know, which is a bonus, and the cafes are charming, drinks a little overpriced but large, and the Rio Bar in the town square is a home from home for Soho lovers. Don't go if you want too much excitement but do go if you want to feel safe. Have lunch in France, 10 minutes' away, and dinner in Germany, equally close. Recommended for unfashionable lovers.