How can I be a respectful tourist in Switzerland?
How can I be a respectful tourist in Switzerland?
- The Swiss shake hands on the first meeting but friends greet each other with three kisses on the cheek- right, left, right.
- It's polite to say hello and goodbye when you enter and leave a shop.
- Punctuality is important, and being late is considered rude.
How do Swiss people feel about foreigners?
In general, the population shows openness towards foreigners living in Switzerland. More than three quarter disagree with the idea that foreigners make the streets seem unsafe, but also with the idea that, at school, foreign children have a negative effect on the education of Swiss children.
Is it OK to speak English in Switzerland?
You'll be able to get by with English, especially in metropolitan areas like Zurich and Geneva. In Switzerland's major cities, more than 30% of the population is non-Swiss, so there are plenty of other non-native speakers. Additionally, Swiss children learn English at school, and many reach a high level of proficiency.
How English friendly is Switzerland?
English proficiency in Switzerland is generally high, especially in urban areas where international companies are based. According to the EF English Proficiency Index, Switzerland currently ranks #29 (out of 111) in terms of English proficiency compared to other non-native English-speaking countries.
What do Swiss people say before eating?
“En Guete” is a phrase used in Switzerland when you are about to have a meal. This is the Swiss German equivalent of the French “Bon appétit,” a typical way to say “Enjoy your meal.” It is customary to say “En Guete” to people when you are on your lunch break at work, or out for dinner in a restaurant.
What is the safest city in Switzerland?
Lugano remains the safest city in Switzerland and has the lowest number of crimes recorded. In Ticino's main city, 24.7 crimes were recorded per 1,000 inhabitants in 2021 (+1.3 percent compared to 2020) versus 36.3 in St. Gallen and 36.8 in Winterthur.