City Transportation Systems:
Swiss cities have excellent transportation systems of buses or streetcars.

Gastronomy:
Switzerland is famous for its cuisine including Swiss chocolates, Swiss cheese, pastries and deserts. Switzerland is also famous for its wines.

Tipping:
Service charge is usually included in hotel, restaurant and taxi fares. An extra tip left to the discretion of the customer.

Weather and climate:
The climate in Switzerland is moderate, without excessive heat cold or humidity.

Security and Health: Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates among industrialized nations. It is safe to eat and drink in Swiss hotels and restaurants and tap water is safe for consumption.

Currency:
The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF) The Euro is also commonly in use in Switzerland.

Banks and Post offices:
Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and closed on weekends and public holidays. Post offices stay open till 6:30 p.m., on weekdays and are open on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m., to 11 a.m.

Public Phones:
Swisscom, Switzerland's largest communications company has booths in all airports, railway stations and tourist destinations. Swisscom shops also rent cell phones.

Shopping:
Switzerland is known for its excellent products including Swiss watches, Swiss knives, Swiss chocolates, Swiss cheese, music boxes, designer clothing, antiques and art.

Value Added Taxes:
VAT of 7.6% is charged on all goods purchased in stores in Switzerland. You can reclaim the VAT by asking for a global refund cheque. To claim your refund your total purchases in a shop should be 400 CHF. You must be a visitor from another country and the goods you have purchased must be exported within 30 days.

Electricity:
The standard current used in Switzerland is 230 volts (AC) 50 cycles. Power sockets are designed for 3 pin plugs. The Continental plug with 2 pins can easily be used. All hotels have adaptor plugs so guests can use their electrical appliances.