Planning to travel solo or with the significant others in the European continent, particularly the Swiss Country – The Switzerland? Get familiar. Here are some useful and relevant information for you to start getting acquainted with the next travel destination and further plan ahead.
General Knowledge
Located in the West-Central Europe, Switzerland is a rich and developed country with a moderate climate and home to Red Cross – a famous international organization. Switzerland is administratively subdivided into 26 cantons. Though it has no capital city but in effect, it has identified the City of Bern as its capital while Zurich is the largest city. Public holidays may vary from canton to canton whereas the Swiss National Day is celebrated every 1st of August each year.
Language and Demographics
Most Swiss speaks the German language while the others speak of French, Italian and Romansh languages. These four (4) are considered the official languages of Switzerland. Switzerland is home to about eight million people wherein majority are living in urban areas and associated in Roman Catholic religion.
Travel and Time Zone
Passport is necessary and visas are not required for a US passport holder visiting as a tourist or in a business trip not more than quarter of the year of continuous stay. Switzerland has several direct flights from identified US states. Central European Time (CET) is applied during winter period from end of March until end of October but summer time applies an hour additional.
Currency and Economy
The official legal tender is in Swiss Francs. It has denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1000 francs in bank notes. Coins are also available. To date, a US dollar is equivalent to almost one franc but may vary depending on prevalent exchange rates. Businesses and public services usually open by 8am and closed by 6pm. Several dining cafes and entertainment centers open at night.
What to Do and Where to Go
There are many fun and exciting activities to do and attractions to indulge in Switzerland from A-Z. Greatest cities have in store different ideas to experience and enjoy – from fascinating sights to adventure-inducing happenings for your heart’s content. Go river cruise in Rhine Valley. Enjoy the Alpine adventure. Savor the sight of Reichenbach Falls. Visit a public museum. Get lost in architectural delight. Try public transportation. Name it and Switzerland will be glad to offer it for you and your company.
Other Important Reminders and Notes
Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates of all industrialized countries but be cautious on wallets and luggage at public areas. Smoking is strictly restricted in public, closed areas and workplaces. Legal age of drinking alcohol is as early as sixteen (16). Tap water is generally safe. “Tipping” to basic service providers is not necessary since bills are already inclusive of a 15% service charge but locals do round up bills after a good service.
Switzerland is an excellent place to visit at any time of the year. Be brave and bold. Willkommen in der Schweiz!