1. About

Set aside preconceptions of postcard scenery, chocolate and cheese, faceless bankers and spotless cities. The real Switzerland is anything but bland. This small, rugger, landlocked country at the heart of Europe is full of surprises. Largely victims of their own success, the Swiss have often been misunderstood. Having scaped the traumas of war in the last century, they did not have to rebuild a shattered society. Their neutrality, isolationism, and wealth have made them appear smug, and protective of their standard of living. In fact their protective has been hard-won. They were not always rich. Proud, industrious, fair-minded and creative, they have had a bad press.

Switzerland today is a model of peace and multicultural cooperation, yet historically the country was racked by conflict. Swiss mercenaries were a major export. The extraordinary act of will that brought together disparate social and regional groups against their common enemy in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries was the glue that continues to hold the Confederation together today. Its decentralized political structure means that the cantons are largely autonomous, and retain their individual character. In this grassroots democracy real power lies with the people, who exercise it directly through frequent referendums. “Swissness” is, above all, a spirit of independence and of communal involvement.

In private life the Swiss are no less active and responsive. They respect the individual, which means that, while they appreciate clear thinking and direct talking, they avoid confrontation. They will never intrude, yet will willingly help out if asked. Making an effort, it is possible to find warmth, decency, wit, and intelligence.

This Blog reveals some of the hospitality dimension of this enigmatic country. It intends to navigate the readers through various aspects of Swiss life and society. There is an advice on meeting people, on how to behave in different situations and how to avoid making gaffes. It describes what is important to them, how they work, relax, and how they perceive foreigners.