Swtizerland, is a small federal republic which is made up of 26 states, known as cantons. Situated in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is as famous for neutrality as it is for its stunning Alpine peaks. The country has not been at war since 1815.
Travellers to Switzerland will be enchanted by a fairytale landscape of snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes, lush green valleys and flower-filled meadows. The captivating natural beauty of the region’s scenery is further complemented by a diverse and vibrant culture and warmly welcoming locals.
Insight Vacations offer a number of itineraries which visit the United States of America which include; the 9-day Glorious Switzerland, the 12-day Country Roads of Switzerland, the 14-day Highlights of Europe and the 19-day European Panorama.
>>click here to see our collection of tours featuring Switzerland
CAPITAL: Bern
POPULATION: 6,968,570
AREA: 41,284 sq km (15,940 sq miles)
BANKING
Banks are open 8.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Travellers cheques and foreign currency may be exchanged at airports, railway stations and banks. Many hotels also offer
exchange facilities.
CLIMATE AND CLOTHING
In the Alps temperatures tend to remain fairly cool throughout the year. In the lower lands temperatures tend to be warmer with hot
summers. Lightweight clothing is required for summer and heavier
clothing for winter.
CURRENCY
One Swiss Franc (SFr) = 100 rappen or centimes.
Notes: (SFr) 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10
Coins: (SFr) 5, 2 and 1 and 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes.
Travellers cheques and most major credit cards are widely accepted.
ELECTRICITY 220 volts.
EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES
Australia: Conswat-Chemins des Fins 2,
Case Postale 1712 Geneva Tel: 799 9100
Britain: Embassy Thunstrasse 50, 3005 Berne Tel: 359 7700
Canada: Ave de l'Arianas, Geneva Tel: 919 9200
New Zealand: Ch Du Petit-Sacconex 28
Case Postale, 1211 Geneva Tel: 734 9530
South Africa: Rue Du Rhone 65, Geneva Tel: 849 5454
USA: Rue Versonnex 7, Geneva Tel: 840 5160
FOOD AND DRINK
The most popular Swiss dish is Fondue, a mixture of Gruyère and Emmenthal cheese, melted and mixed with white wine, flour, Kirsch and a little garlic. Pork sausages and salami come in many different varieties. Pastries and cakes are also varied and delicious. Swiss wines and beers are reasonably priced and are excellent.
GEOGRAPHY
Switzerland has the highest mountains in Europe and some of the most awesome waterfalls and lakes. Spring is an excellent time to visit as the wild flowers are in full bloom.
LANGUAGE
In Switzerland 73% of the population speak German in the central and eastern areas. 20% speak French in the west and 4% speak Italian in the south. Raeto-Romansch is spoken in the southeast of Switzerland by 1%. English is spoken by many people.
LOCAL TRANSPORT
The Swiss transport system is run, like its watches, with precision. Most cities have trams and light rail services and the major towns also have trolleybuses. Tickets need to be pre-purchased from a machine found at all stops. Fares are generally zonal. Taxis are widely available and drivers will expect a 15% tip.
MANNERS AND CUSTOMS
When visiting Swiss homes it is customary to give the hostess a bunch of flowers. Avoid chrysanthemums or white asters as these are regarded as funeral flowers. Casual wear is acceptable unless otherwise stated.
POSTAL SERVICES
Post offices are open 7.30am - 12noon and 2pm - 6.30 Monday to Friday. Stamps may be purchased from vending machines outside post offices, souvenir shops and most hotels. Post boxes are yellow with the letters PTT embossed on them.
RELIGION
The majority of the population is Roman Catholic and Protestant.
SHOPPING
Shops and stores in Switzerland are open 8.30am - 6.30noon with a 2 hour break, Monday to Friday, 8am - 12noon and 1.30pm - 4pm on Saturday. From a Swatch to a Rolex, there’s a superb Swiss watch for every wrist and pocket. Swiss army knives can have up to 13 different gadgets - from scissors to saws. Sample the famous chocolates and cheeses and look for carvings, cuckoo clocks, hand embroidery or dolls in regional costumes.
TELEPHONE
The outgoing international code is 00 and IDD is available. Public phones may be found at post offices and railway stations.
EKIT
The access numbers are: Switzerland 0800-562-733
* Zurich economy 44-580-4354
* Nationwide economy 0842-000-004
TIME DIFFERENCE
NEW YORK 6am
LONDON 11am
BERN NOON
JO’BURG Noon
SYDNEY 7pm
AUCKLAND 9pm
WATER
The water in Switzerland is safe to drink.
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