WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING SWITZERLAND
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING SWITZERLAND
The federal republic of Switzerland is a small country in central Europe, and its capital is Bern (I am almost sure most people think it is Zurich). The city of Geneva is the headquarters of governmental and non-governmental organisations, and Zurich is the largest city and the economic, social, and cultural center of Switzerland. Switzerland has many mountains, small villages, alpine lakes, pristine farms, and grassland (this makes for happier cows and better quality dairy products). Also, what you should know before visiting Switzerland is that Switzerland is home to some of the best chocolates and cheeses. Consequently, it was one of the three reasons, besides visiting the alps, that I was excited to go.
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A big “heads up” for those planning to visit Switzerland. IT IS SUPER EXPENSIVE. Not only is it expensive, but your spending/buying power is lower because your USD and Euro are worth less in Switzerland. Moreover, it has been the most expensive destination of all my travels. I must point out that my visit to Zurich was during the low season, and prices were still very high. So imagine prices, especially for accommodation during the peak travel season. I am here to share some brief information about what you should know before visiting Switzerland.
ENTRY INTO ZURICH
Entry into Zurich International Airport was smooth and hassle-free. The airport is quite huge, well organised, and a nice airport. I can see why they rate this airport as one of the coolest in Europe and among the top 5 airports worldwide. Depending on the airport/country from which you arrive or exit, you will not encounter any immigration or customs officers.
I entered via Madrid and exited to Amsterdam, so there was no need for any such interactions. Therefore, I cannot say whether or not the T.S.A. Officers were pleasant and welcoming. Next, I was on my way to collect my luggage. On approaching luggage pickup, I did so nervously. Why? Because Zurich airport is notorious for luggage pile-ups and lost luggage, even worst since the ease of travel restrictions.
Throughout my trip, I met many passengers in other airports besides Zurich, who were returning two or three times to these airports and still could not receive their luggage. I digressed, back at the luggage pickup. I was relieved to see my suitcase in between the pile of luggage. Then an easy exit through customs green and red sign (anything to declare or not) and then out the door to transport. It all took less than 15 minutes.
What you Should know before Visiting Switzerland Cont...
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO THE CITY
Time to head to the city/accommodation. However, before exiting the airport, convert a small amount of cash to Swiss Francs to pay for your transportation (taxis will accept Euro but not USD). The options for the city are taxis, Uber, and Tram 10, or if you are using the train/S-Bahn you can use your credit card to purchase the ticket. If you opt for the train, the Zurich Card is available for zone 110 and between the airport and the city. It also gives free entry to many museums and other discounts. Of the three, the tram is the cheapest option to the city. It is the slowest option but offers the most scenic ride.
ABOUT ZURICH
Zurich is the largest city and the financial capital of Switzerland and is notorious for being the most expensive city in Europe. Zurich is a beautiful and clean city with lots to offer such as; a wide varieties of cheeses, chocolates, and sceneries. I certainly love the cleanliness of it and its overall beauty. From my observation of the city, I saw no garbage pile-ups, even though the falling leaves were a bit much; just part of the transition of the seasons. However, there are a small number of homeless people in both Zurich and Lucerne/Luzern.
My stay was in Zurich, but on visiting Lucerne/Luzern, I fell in love with the city. I must point out; if I had the financial means, Lucerne/Switzerland would be one of my choices to relocate permanently. Lucerne is also a beautiful, tranquil, and clean city, but it has an edge over Zurich, the financial capital.
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Additional Information about Switzerland you may not know
- The languages spoken – Swiss German (official) Italian, French, and Romansh.
- Official currency – Swiss Franc, which is a strong currency
Exchange rate:
USD $1.00 – 0.95 Swiss Franc (CHF)
Euro 1.00 – 0.96 Swiss Franc (CHF)
Pounds 1.00 – 1.10 Swiss Francs (CHF)
- In Switzerland, they use the J-type socket. So be sure to travel with your Converter, or you will have to buy one to charge your devices. This be one of the 16 items to pack in your carry-on.
- The Swiss like to parade their cattle (bring the cattle down from the mountains). It is an end-of-summer celebration.
- The Alps make up Almost 60% of the country.
- If you plan to site-see in a rental, be aware that they do not allow cars in some villages. Instead use the train, bus, or even a boat.
- Switzerland prides itself on neutrality (it does not take sides), hence the reason they have no standing army.
- Switzerland is one of the safest, most peaceful, country and its citizens are among the top 5 happiest in the world.
- The Swiss are crazy about melted cheese (otherwise known today as fondue).
- Switzerland is the birthplace of sportsperson: Roger Federer, Martina Hingis, Clint Capela, among others, and the infamous Sepp Blatter.
- Punctuality is a way of life in Switzerland, and they take great pride in it. They hinge on being respectful to each other. So, whatever you do, be always punctual.
- Switzerland is expensive but offers tax-free shopping.
- Built during the Cold War, all Swiss inhabitants must have access to a nuclear shelter. These bunkers are in all apartments, hospitals, and public institutions.
- You can drink tap water. Similarly, in Iceland, the water is crisp and tastes better than bottled water (these countries were the only two I drank tap water).
- Switzerland is the birthplace of the Red Cross.
- If you are on foot, trams have the right away, even at pedestrian crossings. So if you are not aware, the driver will ring the bell to alert you.
What you Should know before Visiting Switzerland Cont...
ABOUT THE SWISS PEOPLE AND SECURITY
Before visiting, I heard from many people that the Swiss are cold. However, the first interaction with two locals in the arrival hall was the beginning of my doubt regarding this view. The gentleman and lady I spoke to separately for over 15 minutes were more cheerful than me. Then, of course, I had to ask if they were Swiss-born, and indeed they were. The information booth lady was also genuinely pleasant and helpful (yes, they pay her to be helpful but it is not the status quo in every country, they are not usually friendly like she was). Of course, I met some people I observed who were a bit reserved, neither smiled nor talked much, and may have appeared cold, but most were friendly.
The Swiss might appear unfriendly, but once they trust you enough to let you in, they are friendly and helpful. Furthermore, it could be the chase of the dollar to keep up with exorbitant prices in that country that have many looking tense. Contrarily, even though they are reported to be the 5th happiest in the world, I did not see it on display. I have been to many other countries with happier people than the Swiss. To be honest, the prices of goods and services in that country are nothing to smile about. As happy as I was to visit, I was equally happy to leave, seriously, or they would have destroyed my budget. As a budget-traveller, you must be versed in balancing that dollar and practicing self-contraint.
Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world. From my observation, both Zurich and Lucerne reminds me of Iceland and Lithuania. Reason being? Because I walked day and night and never once looked back or clutched my handbag tightly in front of me. Added to this, the security in this city is super relaxed. The visibility of police officers was low, yet I felt safe.
SWISS FOOD YOU MUST PARTAKE OF
Switzerland is renowned for its chocolates and cheeses. I could not wait to arrive to enjoy some Swiss cheese with some crackers and olives my fav. snack). The cheeses range from mild and spicy to nutty. Because Switzerland is famous for its cows, and its cheese varieties and yogurts are among its popular treats. Below are some popular Swiss dishes you should partake of when visiting Switzerland.
- Fondue – This is a must-have food in Switzerland. It is made from Swiss cheese. Yummy!! Country bread dunked in a bubbling pot of melted cheeses. (The most popular one is Raclette).
- Swiss Chocolate – Of course, who can resist the temptation to enjoy some yummy Swiss chocolate?
- Papet Vaudois – Mashed potatoes and leeks, stewed for hours, with added sausages.
- Swiss Cider (available in many flavors) and Swiss wines.
- Rosti Valaisanne-style – This is a flat cake made from thinly grated potatoes and pan-fried until golden. Served with sausages or bacon and topped with melted cheese and onion gravy.
- Tartiflette (grilled dish) It is made from thinly sliced potatoes, smokey bits of bacon, onions, and nutty, creamy Reblochon cheese.
There are so many other delicious foods to try in Switzerland but try not to leave the country without partaking of a couple.
What you Should know before Visiting Switzerland Cont...
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MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN ZURICH/SWITZERLAND
- Grossmunster (Swiss twin tower, climb to the top and enjoy the view).
- Uetliberg lookout/mountain (take a train ride to see the best view of the city, lake, and Alps).
- Fraumunster Church (with famous windows created by Chagall and Swiss artist A. Giacometti).
- Swiss Alps (a 3 and half-hours ride by train. It is a must-see and an experience not to miss when in Switzerland, especially during the winter months).
- Bahnhofstrasse (shopping street), The Old Town, and Zurich-West (new and feature more designer shops) are all open 24/7 for shopping restaurants and bars.
- Lake Zurich
- Take a trip outside Zurich to Lucerne/Luzern and Pilatus.
Point to note; during the October/November months, that side of the world tends not to have any snow and experience rainier weather. So plan well with your travel umbrella and galoshes for the cold and wet conditions. The rainy weather is one of the reason I didn’t get to explore the country more and especially the fact that the Alps had no snow. Because visiting these mountains without snow takes away from the thrill of it, and at a high cost and long distance.
What you Should know before Visiting Switzerland Cont...
MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS
These are my essentials and gadgets I can never do without, for a smooth and stress-free vacation. All are available on Amazon with direct links to the products, information and suggested uses.
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SUMMARY
Switzerland is worth adding to your bucket list. Even though it will certainly not be a budget traveller’s first or second choice country to visit because of the costliness of it, Switzerland is worth a visit. However, it is not a country you can go and “wing it”. Hell, No!! You will need to plan and prepare well, not to “burst your budget”. Don’t let it be one be your travel mistake (see 22 travel mistakes you should not make). That is not to discourage you, but if you carefully research, plan, and book early, you will find no-frills accommodations. Even though it is expensive, it has so much to offer. It is a country I will highly recommend to all to visit at least once in a lifetime. Not only is Switzerland renown for the best chocolates and cheeses, but it is famous for its Swiss watches, ski resorts, hiking trails, and its banking and financial sectors.
I hope you found this information on what you should know before visiting Switzerland, interesting and helpful.
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