Lake Geneva and Frankenstein

This month's issue of the Andrew Harper Traveler features Montreux on Lake Geneva, Switzerland (as well as the Dents du Midi mountain range beyond), which happens to be the locale that inspired the classic novel "Frankenstein." Mary Shelley's imagination was sparked by her travels to the region, and she first started writing the tale when she was only 19 years old. Her travel companions came up with a challenge to see who could write the best horror story, and after deliberating about her plot, the idea of a scientist who created life came to her in a dream. The book is considered to be one of the first examples of science fiction. It was first published anonymously in 1818 and only with the second printing was Shelley's name revealed.

For a deeper dive into the region that inspired the eerie tale, check out the latest Traveler magazine.  And, Happy Halloween.