Episode 98: How to Respect Local Customs and Etiquette on Your Swiss Vacation
Are you dreaming of visiting Switzerland but feeling unsure about the cultural norms and etiquette?
As a visitor in a foreign country, it’s natural to worry about unintentionally offending locals or committing social faux pas.
In this episode, I chat with Kathrin Spinnler, who was born and raised in Switzerland, to get her expert advice on navigating Swiss culture with ease.
Kathrin shares valuable tips on a wide range of topics, from using public transportation in Switzerland and dining out, to greeting locals and respecting the environment while hiking. She also discusses the importance of punctuality, making eye contact, and learning a few basic phrases in French or German to show respect and effort.
By the end of this episode, you’ll have a better understanding of Swiss customs and feel more confident about your upcoming trip. Tune in and get ready to plan your dream vacation to Switzerland!
Click the green button below to listen:
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Show Notes
In this episode you’ll learn about:
- Swiss train travel etiquette
- Packing tips for Switzerland
- Useful things to know about eating out in Switzerland
- Do you need to tip in Switzerland?
- How to greet the Swiss
- Guidelines to follow when hiking and swimming
Our Guest
Kathrin is a writer and German teacher from Bern, Switzerland, where she lived for over twenty years.
She manages a podcast, blog, and newsletter called “Living in Switzerland” for Rigby AG, a Zurich-based staffing company. Through these channels, she shares practical information about moving to Switzerland but also insights into the country’s society and culture.
The goal is to help people make the most of their time in Switzerland, whether they are just visiting or staying long-term.
Useful resources
- Listen to the Living in Switzerland podcast on your favourite podcast platform or here.
- Subscribe to the Rigby.ch newsletter for useful tips about living in Switzerland.
- Get in touch with Kathrin Spinnler on LinkedIn.
- The Swiss Travel Pass is the perfect ticket for visitors to Switzerland. Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here.
- Learn more about using public transport in Switzerland in this article and in episode 84 of our podcast.
- Read our article about Swiss culture and etiquette.
- Read a full transcript of this episode here.
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