Switzerland

Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

Official language: French, German, Italian, and Romansh

Early civilization in Switzerland dates back to the Bronze Age, but the first true colonization occured from the Celtic tribes, who came to the area around 500 BC. These groups were known as the Helvetians, which is where "Helvetia" originated from, the name seen today on Swiss coins and stamps. The Helvetians were conquered by the Romans in 58 BC, who settled the cities of Basel, Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne until about 400 AD. The Romans were subsequently driven out by the Germanic tribes.

In the Middle Ages as with the rest of Europe, Switzerland was mired in feudal rule. The grand monasteries such as the Convent of St. Gallen, were established and built during this time. This is also when the cities of Berne and Lucerne - both of which remain important symbols of medieval architecture - were founded. Still to this day the entire old town of Berne is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The culture in the cities of Switzerland was built around skilled artisans and craftsmen, such as watchmakers, which the country is famous for. This era also established the Swiss Confederacy, what today’s canton system is based upon.

When Reformation swept Europe, Switzerland was divided between the Reformers and Catholics. This era was followed by the occupation by Napoleon, whose downfall led to the Congress of Vienna in 1815, which established Switzerland’s independence. This was followed by the creation of their constitution and the establishment of democracy in 1891.

Switzerland’s culture has been strongly influenced by its neighbors, Germany, Italy, France, Liechtenstein, and Austria and different regions have strong ties to the country they border. For example, the western parts of Switzerland have a very French feel, and most residents here speak French and enjoy French cuisine. Switzerland is proud of its diversity.

The country’s trade and industry has grown out of agriculture and its artisan culture. Even today, Switzerland is known for its chocolates and cheeses, as well as high quality watches and knives coveted the world over.

There are many different festivals in Switzerland, which vary by region. One of these is the Fastnacht or carnival, most famous in Basel and Lucerne. An unusual custom is the mask festival that takes place in Loetschental, Canton Valais. In February, men and boys roam the streets wearing hand carved masks and goat skin tunics. Many customs also revolve around agriculture, an important part of the Swiss economy and daily life in the countryside. One of these is the "burning of the Boeoegg" that marks the start of spring.

Switzerland has a varied climate, depending on the location and altitude. Generally, the warmest weather comes during the summer months when temperatures range from 14˚F to 84˚F and is the hottest in the Valais in the south. However, the summer also sees the most rainfall, primarily due to the "Foehn" phenomenon when hot, dry winds come up from the valleys and are blocked by the Alps, forcing precipitation and giving the best views of the mountains.

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means there are no border controls for nationals of EU countries. EU citizens only require a valid national identity card or passport to enter Switzerland. Non-EU citizen require a valid passport and possibly a visa if you intend on a longer visit.

Switzerland has an excellent road network, so exploring the country by car is an easy option. All major Swiss cities have radio taxis that can be found outside the major hotels. In Zurich, you can call Taxi 444 (+41-444-444-444), Taxi Phone (+41-22-33-141-33) in Geneva and Taxi Schaller (+41-27-967-12-12) in Zermatt. Visitors should be aware that cabs are reasonably priced for short distances, but are not recommended for extended journeys.

Switzerland is known for its excellent public transportation, which is a good way to explore the cities, and also the cheapest and safest option. Whether within cities or inter-city, excellent connections are available by tram, train and bus. To save money, visitors should consider buying one of the many travel passes, such as the Z-pass, Swiss Pass or NetzPass. Most believe the S-Bahn (tram) to be the most convenient option, as the network is easy to understand and reaches most parts of the city. Zurich also has river buses and lake boats.

Geneva offers free daily travel passes to visitors, so make sure to get one when you arrive. There are trams and buses that provide connections throughout the city, and there is also a boat service on Lake Geneva. Visitors can pickup the free travel card from their hotel.

Zermatt is a car-free town, so transportation options include taxis and buses or walking to explore. The best option is the electric bus, whose fares are included in a ski pass. Access to Zermatt is best done by train.

Before you leave on your holiday, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.

Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

DO

• Do respect traditional Swiss greeting with three kisses on the cheek. Though a handshake is the norm on a first meeting.
• Do dress conservatively and neatly.
• Do appreciate tolerance and be patient in Switzerland. Swiss are rather discrete, let them follow them own rhythm.
• Do keep both hands on the table during a meal but keep elbows off the table. Eat everything off your plate and put your knife and fork side by side when you are done eating.
• Do use fork to cut food such as salad and potatoes instead of a knife. Break bread with your hand but most other food should be eaten with utensils.
• Do recognise that German French and Italian are widely spoken in Switzerland.
• Do ask for your tax free shopping cheque and reclaim the VAT if your purchase costs atleast CHF 500 Switzerland is a shopper’s paradise with so much irresistible stuff around.

DON'T

• Do not speak loudly in public especially on a cell phone nor make big noise or joking loudly. As a rule Swiss do not like noise and dislike others make jokes about them.
• Do not address someone by their first name until invited to do so. Use surnames and titles instead.
• Do not give expensive or extravagant gifts which can be viewed as tacky or bribery nor give anything sharp such as knives or scissors which signifies severing off the friendship.
• Do not drink until after the first toast given by the host. Do not ask for the salt and pepper if it not already on the table.
• Do not feel obligated to tip. A service charge is included in restaurants and hotels.
• Do not put your hands in pockets while talking to people nor chew gum, litter or clean your nails in public.
• Do not ask personal question such as salary, ag or religion. Swiss respects privacy highly.
• Do not eat out which can be very expensive making lunch your main meal of the day.
• Do not hike unless you think you are fit or hike often. Carry your joggers or any pair of light shoes.