Portfolio - Special Edition Switzerland

60 Useful Tips Special Edition Switzerland THE ESSENTIALS What you need to know before your trip to Switzerland SPEAK There are four national languages in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. German is the most common language, followed by French. However, English is widely spoken, too. PAY The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF). While prices are sometimes indicated in Euros for comparison purposes (CHF 1 is approximately EUR 0.93), merchants are not obliged to transact in other currencies. Credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are widely accepted across the country, and most cash machines are on the Cirrus or Maestro network. Tipping is not mandatory but is always welcomed. GET AROUND Switzerland has three central geographical regions: the Alps, the Jura, and the Central Plateau. These regions are further divided into 26 cantons, with the capital being Bern. It is easy to get around the country thanks to its comprehensive public transport network, which comprises trains, buses, and boats. myswitzerland.com/planning HIT THE SLOPES Learn how to ski in the Swiss Alps With miles and miles of powdery snow during winter, Switzerland is a veritable skiing paradise. If you’re new to the sport, fret not. Consider signing up for First Ski Experience, a range of all-in-one ski packages ideal for novices. These typically include several hours of private tuition under experienced instructors, ski equipment hire, and transport. There are both half- and full-day itineraries available for popular ski destinations such as St. Moritz, Grindelwald, and Crans- Montana, to name a few. You’ll be whizzing down the slopes like a pro in no time. myfirsttime.ch    