Switzerland

Switzerland Introduction

Landlocked Switzerland is a mountainous country in Western Europe surrounded by Germany, Austria, Lichtenstein, France and Italy. Officially the Swiss Confederation, it is a federal republic divided into 26 cantons. Switzerland is a little country with big differences. A land of diversity, the country not only has three main language regions that have developed their own culture, traditions, economy and cuisine, but expats from around the world have brought with them their own cultures and languages. The country has four official languages, primarily reflecting the languages of the large, contiguous countries that border Switzerland: German, French, Italian and Rumantsch. German is by far the most widely spoken language in Switzerland, with 19 of the country’s 26 cantons predominantly German-speaking.

French is spoken in the western part of the country. Italian is spoken in the southern canton of Ticino andÊfour southern valleys of Canton GraubŸnden. Rumantsch is spoken in the only trilingual canton, GraubŸnden. Interestingly, the many foreign residents who call Switzerland home have brought with them their own languages, which taken as a whole now outnumber both Rumantsch and Italian.

Lifestyle can vary greatly depending on the area of the country and the background of the people. Someone living in Geneva often has more in common with his or her French neighbors than Swiss people in other parts of Switzerland. As you travel from the German-speaking north of the country to the Italian-speaking south, the changes you will see and feel are as marked as the sunshine and warmth of Ticino and its people are from the chilly north.

Well known for their hard work, punctuality, thrift and independence, the Swiss are mostly a reserved people. Relationships take a bit more work, requiring you to take the first step. But once you do, you will be rewarded with knowing people who value family life, a healthy lifestyle and a love of the outdoors. The Swiss love hiking, skiing and cycling in their beautiful land of rugged mountains, forests, rivers and lakes.

In addition to MYIA’s detailed information on moving to Switzerland and living and working in the country, visit the Swiss government’s excellent Swiss Portal website.