Beginner's Guide to Switzerland

Ticino

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:00:39 +0000

South of the Alps, Ticino has a Mediterranean feel, somewhat like Italy, with palm trees, beaches, piazzas, and churches. Tourists here can enjoy parks, gardens, and whitewater rafting. This region is also brimming with culture as poets, artists, and architects have not been able to resist its many charming landscapes. In Ticino, visitors can enjoy warm weather and snow in the same day!

Geneva

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:01:15 +0000

Geneva is known as the Capital of Peace, since the European headquarters of the United Nations is located there. But, it is also known as The World's Smallest Metropolis, due to the fact that it is a somewhat cosmopolitan area that is slightly set apart from the rest of Switzerland. Shopping, quiet strolls in the park, lakeside promenades, boat trips, and unspoiled scenery are all enjoyed here, as well as mansions, quaint villages, and vineyards.

Cultural outings such as theater, museums, opera, ballet, cinema, concerts, and cabarets are all present in Geneva, and for nature lovers there is Lake Geneva, exquisite in every season of the year. Tourists come here to ski, enjoy other winter sports, explore the city, relax in the country, and enjoy delicious meals. Geneva is a delightful blend of the country and the city, the elegant and the rustic. Geneva has something for everyone.

Sources:
www.swissworld.org
www.myswitzerland.com

Switzerland Vacations: A Week-Long Itinerary Overview

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:01:59 +0000

Are you planning a vacation to Switzerland? Maybe you’re vacationing in Europe and you’d like to take a week to explore Switzerland. If so, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll help you make the most out of your stay in Switzerland by building an itinerary that showcases the most popular cities and attractions in the country. Grab your skis, and you’re off!

Be prepared to enter a land of fairy tales. In Switzerland, time seems to stand still as you gaze upon picturesque villages, calm lakes, and rustic cottages, all with a mountainous backdrop. You’ll view perfect houses with window boxes brimming with red geraniums, cozy, inviting towns, and majestic castles and museums. You’ll go to sleep dreaming of the delicious cuisine you just indulged in. Switzerland is more than just a vacation – it’s a dream come true!

Days One and Two

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:03:07 +0000

You’ll begin your journey in Zürich, the largest city in Switzerland, and also the main commercial center of the country. Today you’re going to visit Rapperswil, which is the perfect place for everyone in your family. Rapperswil is a riviera at the north end of Lake Zürich, and there are many attractions here! You can start out by exploring the medieval castle and its museum. If you're really into museums, Rapperswil also has the Polish Museum and the Circus Museum! From this interesting town you can view the longest wooden bridge that connects Rapperswil and Hurden.

When you're hungry, there are several resorts nearby that have restaurants. After lunch, take advantage of Europe's largest indoor water park, the Alpamare! Also unique is the Atzmännig, a playground equipped with slides and trampolines. Adults and kids a like will have a great time here.

If you'd rather not swim, you can opt for hiking and biking trails which are abundant in this area. Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Zürich as you relax on a nature walk. Those wishing to remain indoors can try out Casino Zürichsee.

After your busy afternoon, head back into the city for dinner. Zürich has something for everyone, whether you wish to dine at a trendy cafe or a traditional restaurant in the old town. After dinner, attend an opera, ballet, or musical and experience some of Zürich's finer night life!

For your second day in Zürich, you're on your own to explore the downtown area. There are myriad shops, historical sites, churches, art galleries, and other attractions here to keep you occupied! If you like going to clubs, you'll love Zürich after dark. With an exploding dance club scene, this city is becoming more and more rich in pop culture.

A recommended hotel for your stay in Zürich is the Sofitel Zürich, a beautiful hotel that offers reasonable prices. This hotel houses a French-European restaurant, the Bel Etage. Upon your arrival, enjoy an evening snack in the restaurant or order room service. Here, you’ll be taken care of by an attentive multi-lingual staff.

Days Three, Four, and Five

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:03:42 +0000

You're going to spend three days in the vicinity of Geneva, because there is just so much to see and do here! Following is a list of some of the most famous attractions in Geneva. You can choose which ones best suit you and your family, and do them at your leisure.

• Jet d'Eau - The Jet d'Eau is the tallest water fountain in the world. At 140 meters, this spectacular sight is the hallmark of the city and one of the most famous Swiss attractions. It is even more beautiful at night when it is drenched in lights. Be careful not to get too close or you'll get sprayed!

• L'Horloge Fleurie - It is a well-known fact that one of Switzerland's major industries is watch making, and the L'Horloge Fleurie is a living tribute to this trade. This colorful clock, built in 1955, is 5 meters in diameter and 15.7 meter in circumference with the world's longest second hand at 2.5 meters. The L'Horloge Fleurie is elaborate in design. It is located in the Jardin Anglais and contains 6,500 plants. Each season the clock's design is changed. This is one of Geneva's most photographed attractions.

• Monument Brunswick - This architecturally beautiful monument is situated on the right bank of Lake Geneva. It is intricate in design and serves as the tomb of Charles II, Duke of Brunswick. Charles spent his final years in Geneva and died in 1873. He had made a deal with Geneva that he would leave the city his fortune if they would bury him in a vault that replicated the Scaligeri family Mausoleum in Verona.

• Musee d'Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCO) - The MAMCO opened in 1994, making it the newest museum in Geneva. One interesting thing about this museum is that it is in an old factory that is 4000 square meters in area and is divided into 70 sections. The MAMCO has artwork on exhibit from both public and private collections, with work from famous artists as well as up-and-coming artists. This museum has a multitude of permanent exhibits, and it also features numerous temporary exhibits that are changed throughout the year. There is a small fee to enter this museum.

• The Maison Tavel - The Maison Tavel is a private house that is the oldest in Geneva. It was burnt down in 1334, and upon its immediate rebuilding, was named a historical monument. The cellar holds interesting archaeological ruins, and the ground floor tells the story of Geneva from the Middle Ages to the Restoration. The evolution of the city is shown through the paintings, engravings and pictures on the first floor, and 17th and 18th century woodwork, locksmithing, and ironwork are to be seen in the main hall. The Maison Tavel is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday.

• Promenade de Bastiones - Formerly a botanical garden, the Promenade de Bastions is a beautiful park that has some interesting features. Upon entrance, you will see giant chess boards where you can play a game, or watch local experts play. The Reformation Monument, or Mur des Reformateurs, is located here. A word to the wise: avoid this park at night.

• Skiing and Winter Sports – There are some ski resorts in close proximity to Geneva, so you may want to take advantage of this unique skiing opportunity while you are here! Listed here are a few choices:

1. Champery – Less than 90 minutes from Geneva is this beautiful resort, high in the Alps, where you can ski and snowboard. The Village of Champery has a new sports center, the Palladium, that offers ice skating, curling, indoor sports, swimming, tennis, fitness, and more.

2. Leysin – The closest resort to Geneva, Leysin offers a wide selection of sports all year round. The village is cosmopolitan and filled with chalets, apartments, and hotels. Not to be missed here is the panoramic, revolving restaurant at the top of the Berneuse Mountain.

3. Villars-Gryon – This spectacular mountain resort is located in the Lake Geneva Region. Like other ski resorts, the Villars-Gryon has many sporting activities available. The village is also home to several cozy cafes and colorful festivals. This is a great place to enjoy Swiss night life.

Some restaurants you might want to try in Geneva are Cafe du Soleil and La Trattoria. Cafe du Soleil is an old bistro and one of the only remaining ones of its kind. It is internationally known for its delicious cuisine. La Trattoria is known as one of the best Italian restaurants in Geneva. The menu offers a huge selection of pizza and pasta. A famous favorite dish is its penne maison, pasta with a scrumptious sauce.

A recommended hotel for your stay in Geneva is the Hotel Beau-Rivage in downtown. This hotel features a few different restaurants and also a piano bar. Amenities include nightly turn-down service and a relaxing whirlpool in your room. If you want to sleep in in the mornings, simply order a delicious meal from room service and enjoy breakfast in bed.

Days Six and Seven

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:04:30 +0000

You'll spend your final two days in the town of Lausanne. This is the place to go to relax and unwind. You'll find waterfront cafes, dense forests, and expansive shops. Here you can pick up some Swiss souvenirs while you take in the sights. Following are some of the favorite tourist spots:

• Lausanne Foot Tour – Beginning in front of Lausanne's Town Hall, this guided tour takes you through the streets of the Old Town, showing off the sights of medieval Lausanne. Tours are available in English, French, German, and Italian, and the tour guides provide historical information on the city. There is a small fee for this tour.

• Fondation de l'Hermitage – Exhibitions of paintings are shown in this refurbished old house, making it an interesting place to visit. The house itself holds a lot of history and is visually alluring. Amazing views are available from the park that surrounds the house, and there is a cafeteria in the former attic if you need a snack.

• Place de la Palud – Town Hall is located on this cobblestone-covered square that is the home of the Fountain of Justice. The fountain is the city's oldest, dating back to 1557. A fresh fruit and vegetable market is held here every Wednesday and Saturday morning. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere in one of the many surrounding outdoor cafes and restaurants.

A recommended hotel for your stay in Lausanne is the Lausanne Palace and Spa. The ultimate pampering experience, this hotel boasts amenities such as a concierge, gift shop, indoor pool and hot tub, in-hotel restaurant, and a health spa. After staying here, you'll be so relaxed, you won't mind that your vacation has come to an end.

Sources:
www.en.wikipedia.com
www.travel.yahoo.com
www.world66.com/europe/switzerland
www.myswitzerland.com
www.skicentral.com

Switzerland: Overview and History

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:05:07 +0000

Switzerland is a small landlocked country that is located in the heart of Europe. Its area is about 15,940 square miles and it has a population of about 7.5 million. The country is divided into three topographical regions: the Alps, the Middle land or Plateau, and the Jura. Switzerland is bordered by Germany in the north, Austria in the east, Italy in the south, and France in the west. Therefore, three European cultures meet in Switzerland: the French, the Italian, and the German-speaking region.

Out of the approximately 30 countries in the world with a federal structure, Switzerland is the smallest. But it is also one of the most complex federal states, with 26 cantons, or states, and four official languages. Some of these cantons have a history of confederacy that dates back to the 13th century. This makes these cantons some of the world’s oldest surviving republics.

Switzerland is full of contrasts, with high mountains and low valleys, rainy areas and extremely dry locales, and four distinct seasons. It is one of the most popular countries to visit. This guide will outline the history of Switzerland, acknowledge the very unique aspects of its government, and explain how it came to be the country it is today.

In 1291, leaders from the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden signed the Federal Charter, which was a letter of alliance stating that these cantons were joining the battle against the Habsburgs. The Habsburgs were a Swiss family who, at that time, held the German throne of the Holy Roman Empire. At the Battle of Morgarten in 1315, the Swiss defeated the Habsburgs. Therefore, these three cantons formed the somewhat independent Swiss Confederation.

The Swiss Confederation was joined by the cantons of Glarus and Zug in 1353, and also the cities of Lucerne, Zürich, and Berne. These eight states, called the Old Federation, held together through most of the 15th century. These eight states began to increase in power and wealth, partially due to the success of Swiss mercenaries. Since these were the first eight states, they are listed in that order today, followed by the states that joined the federation after 1481, all listed in historical order. When the Swiss won the Swabian War in 1499, they were finally declared independent from the Holy Roman Empire.

In 1506, Pope Julius II engaged the Swiss Guard; this is the same Swiss Guard that serves the Vatican today. By this time, the Swiss federation had gained a reputation of being somewhat invincible because of their success in earlier wars. However, in 1515, the Swiss were defeated in the Battle of Marignano, which eventually led to wars between the cantons in 1529 and 1531. Still present was the conflict between Catholic and Protestant cantons, which caused even more battles to erupt at the Battles of Villmergen in 1656 and 1712.

The Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 was a positive step for Switzerland, as other European countries recognized Switzerland’s independence and from the Holy Roman Empire and its neutrality as a country. However, the Swiss lost ground again in 1798 during the French Revolution, since the Revolution’s armies conquered Switzerland and imposed a new constitution.

This new constitution abolished the cantons and revolutionized the government, and the new regime was called the Helvetic Republic. The new constitution was not well-liked by the Swiss people, because it had been forced on them by a foreign invading army and had destroyed traditions that the Swiss had worked for centuries to build, including the right to worship. The Swiss rebelled often against this new constitution, but they did not succeed because of the presence of the French troops in their country. One such rebellion, the Nidwalden revolt, made history because of the extreme brutality of the French.

War soon broke out between France and other countries, and suddenly Switzerland was being invaded by Austria and Russia. By this time, the Swiss people were divided: the Republicans were in favor of the new style of government, while the Federalists wanted the cantons to become independent again. The conflict between these two groups was ever-present. In 1803, Napoleon Bonaparte organized a meeting in Paris, inviting leaders from both sides. This resulted in the Act of Mediation, which restored the independence of Switzerland and allowed a Confederation of 19 cantons. From that time on, Swiss politics mainly focused on keeping the cantons autonomous. In 1815, the Congress of Vienna fully re-established Swiss independence, and Switzerland was to be recognized permanently as a neutral country, the European powers agreed. At this time, new cantons Valais, Neuchatel, and Geneva were added, increasing Switzerland’s land area for the last time.

A civil war was started in 1847 between the Catholic and Protestant cantons. This war produced less than 100 deaths and lasted for less than a month. This was the last armed battle on Swiss territory. Consequently, after this civil war, Switzerland adopted a federal constitution in 1848 and amended it in 1874. Switzerland’s responsibility for defense, trade, and legal matters was also dealt with at this time. In 1891, the constitution was amended yet again, naming Switzerland a direct democracy. This amendment still remains and makes the country’s government very unique. Switzerland still possesses the only government in the world to employ a direct democracy system. Since this amendment was added to the constitution, the country of Switzerland has vastly and continually improved in the areas of politics, economy, and socialization.

Switzerland joined the League of Nations in 1920 and the Council of Europe in 1963. The country’s neutral status remained intact during World War I, so Switzerland’s military was not involved in the war. Amazingly, its neutrality also remained through World War II, and a planned German intervention did not happen. History claims that the reason for the failure of the German intervention was that Swiss armed forces had been mobilized under General Henri Guisan’s command. Another major factor, according to modern historical research, was the trade relationship between Swiss banks and Nazi Germany.

In 1959, women were given the right to vote in the first cantons. In 1971, they were allowed to vote at the federal level, and only in 1990 were women allowed to vote in the last canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden. A new canton, Jura, was formed in 1979 from parts of the canton of Berne gaining independence. And in 1999, the cantons along with the Swiss people voted favorably for a revised federal constitution.

Switzerland became a full member of the United Nations in 2002, which left the Vatican as the only remaining state that did not have full United Nations membership. While Switzerland is not a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), it is a founding member of the EFTA, or European Free Trade Association. Switzerland applied for membership to the European Union (EU) in 1992, but it was rejected later that year when Switzerland launched a referendum on the EEA, being the only country to do so. Since then, several referenda on the EU matter have been initiated, but the government has supported none of them. However, Swiss law is being changed little by little to that of the EU, and the government has signed several bilateral agreements with the EU, which refer to trade, politics, and culture. The EU has encompassed Switzerland and Liechtenstein since 1995, when Austria gained membership. In 2005, the Swiss population agreed, by a slim majority, to join the Schengen Treaty. This was seen by the EU as a sign of goodwill by Switzerland, which had been perceived as isolationist for years.

Sources:

www.swissworld.org
www.en.wikipedia.org
www.myswitzerland.com
www.about.ch

Switzerland Vacations: A 1-3 Day Itinerary Overview

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:06:25 +0000

Are you planning a vacation to Switzerland? Maybe you’re vacationing in Europe and you’d like to take a few days to explore Switzerland. If so, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll help you make the most out of your short stay in Switzerland by building an itinerary that showcases the most popular cities and attractions in the country. Grab your skis, and you’re off!

Be prepared to enter a land of fairy tales. In Switzerland, time seems to stand still as you gaze upon picturesque villages, calm lakes, and rustic cottages, all with a mountainous backdrop. You’ll view perfect houses with window boxes brimming with red geraniums, cozy, inviting towns, and majestic castles and museums. You’ll go to sleep dreaming of the delicious cuisine you just indulged in. Switzerland is more than just a vacation – it’s a dream come true!

Day One

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:07:20 +0000

You’ll begin your journey in Zürich, the largest city in Switzerland, and also the main commercial center of the country. Today you’re going to visit Rapperswil, which is the perfect place for everyone in your family. Rapperswil is a riviera at the north end of Lake Zürich, and there are many attractions here! You can start out by exploring the medieval castle and its museum. If you're really into museums, Rapperswil also has the Polish Museum and the Circus Museum! From this interesting town you can view the longest wooden bridge that connects Rapperswil and Hurden.

When you're hungry, there are several resorts nearby that have restaurants. After lunch, take advantage of Europe's largest indoor water park, the Alpamare! Also unique is the Atzmännig, a playground equipped with slides and trampolines. Adults and kids a like will have a great time here.

If you'd rather not swim, you can opt for hiking and biking trails which are abundant in this area. Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Zürich as you relax on a nature walk. Those wishing to remain indoors can try out Casino Zürichsee.

After your busy afternoon, head back into the city for dinner. Zürich has something for everyone, whether you wish to dine at a trendy cafe or a traditional restaurant in the old town. After dinner, attend an opera, ballet, or musical and experience some of Zürich's fine night life!

Tonight, you’ll be staying at the Sofitel Zürich, a beautiful hotel that offers reasonable prices. This hotel houses a French-European restaurant, the Bel Etage. Upon your arrival, enjoy an evening snack in the restaurant or order room service. Here, you’ll be taken care of by an attentive multi-lingual staff. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep so you can do some more exploring tomorrow!

Day Two

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:08:00 +0000

Today you're headed to Geneva. There's so much to do and see here, today will likely be your busiest day! Following is a list of some of the most famous attractions in Geneva. You can choose which ones best suit you and your family, and do them at your leisure.

• Jet d'Eau - The Jet d'Eau is the tallest water fountain in the world. At 140 meters, this spectacular sight is the hallmark of the city and one of the most famous Swiss attractions. It is even more beautiful at night when it is drenched in lights. Be careful not to get too close or you'll get sprayed!

• L'Horloge Fleurie - It is a well-known fact that one of Switzerland's major industries is watch making, and the L'Horloge Fleurie is a living tribute to this trade. This colorful clock, built in 1955, is 5 meters in diameter and 15.7 meter in circumference with the world's longest second hand at 2.5 meters. The L'Horloge Fleurie is elaborate in design. It is located in the Jardin Anglais and contains 6,500 plants. Each season the clock's design is changed. This is one of Geneva's most photographed attractions.

• Monument Brunswick - This architecturally beautiful monument is situated on the right bank of Lake Geneva. It is intricate in design and serves as the tomb of Charles II, Duke of Brunswick. Charles spent his final years in Geneva and died in 1873. He had made a deal with Geneva that he would leave the city his fortune if they would bury him in a vault that replicated the Scaligeri family Mausoleum in Verona.

• Musee d'Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCO) - The MAMCO opened in 1994, making it the newest museum in Geneva. One interesting thing about this museum is that it is in an old factory that is 4000 square meters in area and is divided into 70 sections. The MAMCO has artwork on exhibit from both public and private collections, with work from famous artists as well as up-and-coming artists. This museum has a multitude of permanent exhibits, and it also features numerous temporary exhibits that are changed throughout the year. There is a small fee to enter this museum.

• The Maison Tavel - The Maison Tavel is a private house that is the oldest in Geneva. It was burnt down in 1334, and upon its immediate rebuilding, was named a historical monument. The cellar holds interesting archaeological ruins, and the ground floor tells the story of Geneva from the Middle Ages to the Restoration. The evolution of the city is shown through the paintings, engravings and pictures on the first floor, and 17th and 18th century woodwork, locksmithing, and ironwork are to be seen in the main hall. The Maison Tavel is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday.

Some restaurants you might want to try out are Cafe du Soleil and La Trattoria. Cafe du Soleil is an old bistro and one of the only remaining ones of its kind. It is internationally known for its delicious cuisine. La Trattoria is known as one of the best Italian restaurants in Geneva. The menu offers a huge selection of pizza and pasta. A famous favorite dish is its penne maison, pasta with a scrumptious sauce.

After your long but exciting day of sightseeing, you'll stay at the Hotel Beau-Rivage in downtown Geneva. This hotel features a few different restaurants and also a piano bar. Amenities include nightly turn-down service and a relaxing whirlpool in your room. If you want to sleep in in the morning, simply order a delicious meal from room service and enjoy breakfast in bed.

Day Three

Thu, 04 May 2006 17:08:49 +0000

Ready for some winter sports? You're going to St. Moritz, the mecca of skiing. St. Moritz is world famous for its winter sports. You can ski, downhill or cross-country, or you can go bobsledding! Beginner and expert slopes make this a great place for everyone.

If you don't enjoy winter sports, you can play golf at the Kulm Executive Golf Course. Architect Mario Verdieri designed this challenging 9-hole course for the Kulm Hotel. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, this course is atop one of the highest sites in Europe. Also in St. Moritz are the Segantini Museum and the Engadin Museum.

St. Moritz boasts gourmet festivals and music festivals, along with other sports such as polo and cricket. The night life is spectacular; you'll never run out of things to do. This is a place where celebrities vacation, along with nobility, famous designers, presidents, and the like. In Switzerland, St. Moritz is the place to see and be seen.

If you're just in the mood to relax, there are plenty of cozy ski lodges and resorts for you to cuddle up in. Enjoy the fire and some exquisite Swiss chocolate to end your short vacation perfectly.

Sources:
www.en.wikipedia.com
www.travel.yahoo.com
www.world66.com/europe/switzerland
www.myswitzerland.com

Switzerland: People and Culture

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 16:41:22 +0000

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Switzerland: Major Cities and Regions

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 16:42:47 +0000

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Switzerland: Activities and Attractions

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 16:44:03 +0000

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Switzerland Vacations: A Week-Long Itinerary

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 16:45:18 +0000

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Beginner's Guide to Switzerland

Ticino

Geneva

Switzerland Vacations: A Week-Long Itinerary Overview

Days One and Two

Days Three, Four, and Five

Days Six and Seven

Switzerland: Overview and History

Switzerland Vacations: A 1-3 Day Itinerary Overview

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

Switzerland: People and Culture

Switzerland: People and Culture Overview

Media

Folk Arts

Architecture

Switzerland: Major Cities and Regions

Switzerland: Major Cities and Regions Overview

Eastern Switzerland/Liechtenstein

Bernese Oberland

Fribourg Region

Switzerland: Activities and Attractions

Switzerland: Activities and Attractions Overview

Jet d'Eau

The Mur des Reformateurs

Munster

Switzerland Vacations: A Week-Long Itinerary

Switzerland Vacations: A Week-Long Itinerary Overview

Days One and Two

Days Three, Four, and Five

Days Six and Seven