Switzerland

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• The independence as well as the neutrality of Switzerland has been well-respected by the world, especially the continent of Europe. The country was never a part of both World Wars and its active involvement in different international organizations has paved the way for a strengthened bond with its neighboring counties.

The Life:

• Visiting Switzerland will take US tourists to a seemingly glorious whirlwind travel. The country prides in its peaceful, thriving as well as stable and modernized market economy which results to low unemployment and high-skilled labor force.
• A victorious atmosphere is felt all over the country as everyone notices that the place has become and continuous to be a secured haven for investors.
• Some of the country’s most successful cities comprise of Zurich, its biggest city, and Geneva, known to be the center of the of Switzerland’s arts and culture.

 

Cost of Living:

• Pretty expensive when compared to other countries – fast food meals cost around $13 while an inexpensive restaurant offers a meal for $22. Meals for two can cost $80.
• In terms of accommodation, the range of apartment cost varies from $1000 to $1400 for single-room apartments. Three-bedroom accommodation can go as high as $2500 every month.

 

Poker:

• Poker tournaments held outside casinos are illegal in Switzerland.

 

Internet Access:

• Switzerland has excellent internet connections at residential homes which resulted to closing of internet cafes in the ‘90s. Train stations will normally have some internet terminals.

 

Weather:

• Switzerland has a temperate climate but tends to vary with altitude. Winters are described to be cold, cloudy and rainy while summers can be warm, cloudy, humid along with occasional showers.

 

U.S. Visa/Entry Difficulty Level:

• US tourists can enter Switzerland without a visa and are allowed to stay for up to 90 days. Passport needs to be valid for the next three months after arrival to the country.

 

Language:

• The country has no official language. The locals can speak Swiss-German, French, Italian, etc depending on their place of origin.
• About 60% of the population is German-speaking which means English could be less understood.

 

Language Schools:

• US tourists who do not know and understand German or any other languages spoken in Switzerland are advised to take language courses. Migros Klubschule is a recommended language scholl that offers a variety of courses at affordable prices. Aside from that, the effort of tourists to learn their mother tongue is highly appreciated by the locals.

 

Food:

• Restaurants in the country are governed by strict rules. Organic food is available in many stores and dining places and genetically modified food is not allowed to be offered to the public.

 

Recreation:

• How about a hike Via Alpina Green Trail? The trek covers tiring hikes all throughout the day, comfortable accommodation along with unlimited fantastic sceneries right at the heart of the popular Swiss alone mountains.
• Shop for the country’s trademark – watches, chocolates, cheese and Swiss army knives.

 

Safety:

• It is one of Europe’s safest countries. Pickpockets, however, are easily attracted to Rolex-wearing bankers as well as crowds filled with distracted tourists. Therefore, it is important not to be too engrossed with the beauty of the place neglecting the idea of possible theft.