Removals to Switzerland - A Guide to Swiss Lakes

If you are moving to Switzerland, although the country is landlocked, there are plenty of beautiful lakes that provide a wonderful environment for sporting activities. The fact that the Swiss do well in many yachting competitions is proof that you don’t need a coastline to take up this or any other water-based activity when you move here.

In the time leading up to your move, you will want a professional company who can assist you in all aspects of your removals to Switzerland. Whether you want help with packing or unpacking, assistance with customs paperwork, part or full load removals, and/or insurance, we can help.

Hamiltons has 20 years experience in professional removals to Switzerland and other European and world-wide destinations - as well as destinations within the UK - and our team of experts is on hand to provide a high quality service tailored to your needs.

In fact, there are hundreds of lakes of all sizes in Switzerland which together make up 587 square miles of water. Here’s our guide to some of the biggest and the best and the activities you can do here.

Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Our Guide to Some of the Well Known Large Lakes in Switzerland

Did you know that there are 40 shipwrecks, and six railway cars that date from the 1880’s in Lake Geneva? This is just one of the many fascinating facts about lakes in Switzerland. If you require removals to Switzerland, read on to find more facts and information on the biggest lakes near you.

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and it is roughly 50 miles long and 10 miles across (at its widest stretch). It is known locally in Switzerland as Lac Léman.

In the 1960’s, the lake was so polluted it was considered too risky to swim in certain areas. Fortunately, this has changed and swimming is among the many pastimes here. You can also take up sailing, boating, water skiing, scuba diving, or wind surfing. Yacht racing is popular on Lake Geneva and high-spec catamarans have been designed and built especially for use on the lake.

Another fact about the lake is that, in the early part of the 19th century, Lake Geneva made history as it was selected by French mathematician Jacques Charles Francois Sturm and Swiss physicist Daniel Collodon to measure the speed of sound in natural water using exploding gunpowder.

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is in the canton of Ticino, on the southern side of the Alps and lies in both Italy and Switzerland. The entire lake (including the Italian side) is about 70 km long although 13 km of this is on the Swiss side.

Some interesting facts about this lake is that a 1925 Buggatti roadster belonging to an architect was deliberately sunk in the lake in the 1930’s as part of a tax dodge. He never recovered it from the lake and it was found by a local diver in 1967. In 2009 the wreck was finally pulled out of Lake Maggiore and sold at a classic car exhibition in Paris for just over a quarter of a million euros.

Apart from diving, one of the activities you can do in Lake Maggiore is to take a cable car at the town of Locarno. You can also enjoy pleasure boating along the river or take advantage of the year long mild climate and enjoy one of the beautiful walks along the Gambarogno Riviera (on the opposite side of the river to Locarno).

Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano, also called Lago di Lugano, is a ‘K’ shaped glacial lake which takes its name from the town of Lugano. It is in Italy and Switzerland and one of the interesting facts about the lake is that the Italian side of the water is regarded as a duty free area.

Overlooking the lake between Switzerland and Italy is Monte San Giorgio, a wooded mountain area and world heritage site. Fossils have been discovered in this area that date back 220 million years.

Meanwhile, if you want to take up one of the sports on the lake, you can find all sorts of activities to do here including canoeing and kayaking, diving, windsurfing, rowing, wake boarding, sailing and paddling.

Lake Constance

Lake Constance covers the largest area of any other lake in Switzerland and is shared with France, Germany and Austria.

It lies on the Rhine on the northern base of the Alps and is used as a source of drinking water for South West Germany. If you love getting out in the fresh air, some of the activities you can do here are take a beautiful lakeside walk, go sailing, or if you want a fun-filled activity, pedalo riding.

Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne, also called Vierwaldstättersee, is a beautiful lake within the town of Lucerne. It is an important tourist destination where you can enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river and enjoy the impressive mountain backdrop.

You can swim in the lake or, if you would like to take a trip back in time, why not take a historic boat ride on a paddle wheel steamer?

Lake Zurich

The lake’s water is extremely clean and purified water from the lake is used as a water source in Zurich. The lake can get very warm too, reaching temperatures of 20°C and above so it is a great place to swim. It is an incredibly peaceful area and, as well as swimming, there are trails around the lake which offer a wonderful opportunity for hiking.

Lac de Neuchâtel

This is the largest lake that is entirely in Switzerland and lies at the southern base of the Jura mountains. Although most of the lake is in the Swiss canton of Neuchâtel, it also lies in the cantons of Bern, Vaud and Fribourg.

It is an attractive region with snow-topped mountains and lush greenery. At the northern end of the lake the landscape is dotted with vineyards and there is a large marshland to the south. Some of the activities you can do here are swimming, fishing, sailing, surging, rowing and boating.

About Hamiltons

Hamiltons offers weekly removals to Switzerland, although we also provide a special service, for your convenience, where you can specify the collection and delivery dates for removals to Switzerland.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.

Removals to Switzerland - Your Guide to Swiss Chocolate and Famous Chocolatiers from Switzerland

If you are moving to Switzerland, the chances are you will already know that Switzerland is famous for its chocolate. In fact, the average Swiss eats more chocolate than any other nation - an incredible 23 lbs of chocolate a year compared to the UK average of 17 lbs per person.

Certainly, the Swiss chocolate industry is big business; it is worth an amazing 1.4 billion CHF with around 150,000 tonnes of chocolate produced in the country a year and just over half of this is exported.

For those of you who require removals to Switzerland, you are likely to develop a fondness of delicious Swiss chocolate, if you haven’t already. But, before you make your move abroad, you will need a removals company you can rely on.

Hamiltons Removals has nearly 20 years in the removals industry and offers UK, European and international removals, including removals to Switzerland for households or corporate organisations. We are dedicated to high standards of customer service and provide removals to Switzerland that are tailored to individual requirements and are designed to meet or exceed your expectations.

Here we will look at why Swiss chocolate is so well known, the history of chocolate, and famous names in chocolate.

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Why is Swiss Chocolate so Famous?

Switzerland sets the benchmark in high quality chocolate. It makes some of the finest chocolate in the world and there are many famous Swiss chocolate producers including Neuchatel - named after a city in Switzerland of the same name - which produces excellent handmade chocolate.

One of the main reasons why Switzerland is a leading producer of chocolate is the quality of its ingredients. Swiss chocolate uses only the best quality cocoa beans imported from Africa as well as fresh milk from specially bred Swiss cows, which helps make the chocolate extra smooth.

Another reason why Swiss chocolate is so good is the techniques used to make it. Most Swiss products undergo a much longer rolling and folding process, called conching, which helps take the bitterness out of the chocolate granules to create a wonderful silky texture. In addition to this, dark chocolate may be aged for up to six months to help maximise the flavour.

The History of Swiss Chocolate

The origins of Swiss chocolate can be traced right back to the 17th century when the then mayor of Zurich, Heinrich Escher, visited Brussels in 1697 where he tried the latest drink, called chocolate.

However, it was not until the 19th century when chocolate started to be manufactured in Switzerland. Francois-Louis Cailler opened the first ever Swiss chocolate factory in 1819 and, after this, other chocolate factories sprang up. Years later Daniel Peter invented milk chocolate, first as a drink, then in bar form so the chocolate could be eaten.

Over the next few decades, Swiss chocolatiers perfected their techniques and Swiss chocolate built up a world-wide reputation for quality.

Famous Names in Chocolate

François-Louis Cailler (1796-1852) was the first Swiss chocolate producer after studying how to make chocolate in Italy. The first chocolate factory in Switzerland opened in Vevey, in 1819, and he opened a second factory 16 years later. The second factory was later sold to his son Julian and son-in-law Daniel Peter, another famous name in Swiss chocolate making and you can find more about him below.

Daniel Peter (1836 -1919) made milk chocolate by mixing cocoa with condensed milk, produced by his neighbour Henri Nestle. Milk chocolate became popular worldwide and now makes up as much as 80 per cent of the Swiss market.

Charles-Amedee Kohler (1790 - 1894) invented hazelnut chocolate as a drink in 1830 and opened a factory in Lausanne. He later merged with Peter and the Cailliers to form the firm of Peter, Cailler, Kohler. The company was bought by Nestlé a hundred years later, in 1929.

Rodolphe Lindt (1855 - 1909) Lindt produced the first ever fondant chocolate in 1879. He was an apprentice of his relative Kohler and set up his own chocolate factory in Berne in 1879.   

Philippe Suchard (1797-1884) is considered one of the most successful chocolatiers from Switzerland. Suchard opened his first chocolate factory in 1826 and gained international success after the King of Prussia, William IV, made a bulk order. Suchard’s reputation rose and he won prizes in the Great Exhibition in London. He was the first Swiss chocolatier to open a factory outside Switzerland, in Germany.

Jean Tobler (1830-1905) He was a trained confectioner and sold his own specialities and chocolate from other producers. In 1908, with his son Theodor, he developed the famous triangular chocolate, Toblerone, which is made up of a delicious combination of milk chocolate, almond nougat and honey.

About Hamiltons

Hamiltons offers high class removals to Switzerland and other European and world wide destinations as well as deliveries within the UK. We provide weekly removals to Switzerland, and also offer a special service so you can set your own collection and delivery dates.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.

Removals to Switzerland - Transport in Switzerland

Hamiltons offer first class removals to Switzerland. We have 20 years experience in overseas removals, including shipping to Switzerland in 20 ft or 40 ft containers, and provide weekly removals to Switzerland or a special service where you can specify the dates of your move.

We are specialists in removals to Switzerland and our experienced team will carefully pack, move and ship your possessions, valuables and household goods to your new location. We also provide short and long term storage and can organise the cleaning of the property you are vacating to ensure a stress-free move from start to finish.

Hamiltons provide competitively priced domestic and commercial removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland. In addition to our full and part load service, we can also transport oversized or bulky goods such as harps, pianos, vehicles, and other specialist items.

If you are considering removals to Switzerland, it may be that you are intending to bring your car over to the country. Whether or not you bring your own vehicle, it is most likely you will want to find out about public transport in Switzerland for short or long term journeys. Here we will provide a brief run-down on public transport in Switzerland and what to expect.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Switzerland is Eco-Friendly

When it comes to being green, Switzerland tops the eco-friendly chart, according to Yale University’s Environmental Performance index. And, as well as clean water and sanitation, it takes a tough stance on pollution. Certainly one of the ways to promote cleaner air is to have an excellent public transport system.

Whether you are living in Zurich, Basel, Bern, Geneva or anywhere else in the country, Switzerland’s public transport system is superb, with clean buses and punctual trains. It is a bike friendly country too and has both short and long distance cycle paths. Many Swiss cities offer bike rentals.

However, if you would prefer a more adventurous way of getting about, you can have a go at in-line skating! Switzerland has three routes specifically designated to in-line skating and these are the Mittelland Route, the Rhine Route and the Rhone Route. These all offer a great way to take in some of the country’s fantastic scenery.

Cycling in Switzerland

Although in-line skating is a good way to keep fit, it is not for everybody. A less adventurous way of getting out and about in an eco-friendly way is by bicycle and there is certainly plenty of opportunity for cycling in Switzerland. The country is a very bike friendly nation, which means there’s every chance to get out and about in the fresh air, enjoy the beautiful scenery and get fit at the same time.

In many parts of the country, such as Geneva and Bern, you can hire a bike for four hours free of charge at certain times of the year. All you have to do is show some ID and hand over a refundable deposit of 20 CHF and, after the first four hours, you pay just 1CHF an hour. Basel is another cycle friendly city and has many cycle lanes clearly marked throughout the city. Zurich has several cycle paths, as does Geneva, where you can get a copy of the Velo-Love plan de ville, to find out where the best cycle routes are.

Buses in Switzerland

If you are not planning on bringing a car to Switzerland, the good news is the country has one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems. Some of the more remote and mountainous areas of the country are not accessible by train, but you can reach most villages and hamlets by bus. You will find bus stops outside every main train station and timetables are clearly displayed at the stops. Buses and trams are also available for inner city travel.

If you are travelling within a canton - Geneva, for instance - the bus/tram ticket can also be used for train travel. Travel further afield costs more, but regional tickets are available. For travel in Switzerland, in most incidences, you buy and validate your ticket before boarding or you could risk a fine.

Tram/Light Rail in Switzerland

You can get out and about by tram or light rail services in Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Bern and Zurich. There is also the availability of metro system in Lausanne and these tickets are sold at machines at all stops. The price of the ticket depends on how far you are travelling and the distance is determined by a zone system.

Trains in Switzerland

Swiss trains are very efficient and are a great way to get out and about within the country. You can also use the train to reach destinations further afield. The national railway company is SBB and goes to most destinations in Switzerland.

Airports in Switzerland

The biggest international airport in Switzerland is Zurich Airport, which handled 24 million passengers in 2011 and is the main centre for Swiss International Airlines. Other major airports are Geneva International Airport and Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg and smaller international airports are Bern Airport and Lugano Airport.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland - Museums, Art and Culture

If you are moving overseas and require removals to Switzerland, you will want to find out about things to do in your free time to help you adjust to your new lifestyle. If you are interested in art and culture, we have compiled a brief guide to some of the country’s top museums, art galleries and opera houses.

Hamiltons is a high quality removals firm specialising in first class household and corporate removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland. Our rough guide to Swiss art and culture is designed to help you settle in to your new home and for your to find out more about the attractions near you.

We offer weekly full or part load removals to Switzerland either from the UK or to and from any other European or world-wide destination. We also offer a special service for removals to Switzerland where you can specify the dates of your move.

Your household possessions and valuables will be expertly packed, loaded and transported to your destination. For removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland we also professionally pack and move oversized and bulky goods such as art work, sculptures, musical instruments and other valuables.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland: A Guide to Some of the Country’s Top Museums

Whichever Canton you are moving to in Switzerland, you will most likely want to visit some of the local museums to find out more about the country’s history and delve into the region’s past.

If you are settling in the district of Lausanne, you can get into the Olympic Spirit by visiting the Olympic Museum which has films, interactive exhibitions and fascinating objects dating from ancient times to the present day. The museum is in a picturesque location in Ouchy on Lake Geneva.

If you are moving to the Canton of Aargau and enjoy history you won’t be disappointed as the region has around 70 museums. Among them is the Hallwyl Castle, which is one of the country’s most important, and beautiful, moated castles. Lenzburg Castle is another attraction and is a 900 year old mountaintop building just waiting to be explored. If you are interested in a more mystical museum, you can find a 14th century witch’s tower in the town of Bremgarten near the River Reuss.

Lovers of history will also enjoy the 13th century Oberhofen Castle on the shores of Lake Thun, where you can find out more about Bernese residential culture from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The castle park is simply stunning and lends itself to many a photographic opportunity - just don’t forget to bring your camera! 

Removals to Switzerland: Some of the Country’s Best Art Galleries

Many artists have emerged from Switzerland including the 18th century landscape artist Samuel Hieronymus Grimm (1733-1794). He was born in Burgdorf in Switzerland but travelled to England to create much of his work and was eventually buried in St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden.

Another of Switzerland’s most famous artists was Paul Klee (1879 - 1940). Born from a German father and Swiss mother, he is thought to have been Switzerland’s most original painter. You can see some of his works in the Rosengart Museum in Luzern along with works of art by other 19th and 20th century masters including Cezanne, Picasso, Monet and Matisse.

There are a variety of art galleries and museums in Switzerland housing many different works, from fine art to contemporary collections. Among them is the Geneva Art and History Museum, one of the country’s most important museums. The museum houses 7,000 exhibits, which includes an archaeology section, fine arts, musical instruments and a 20th century art collection.

For something different, the Museum of Photography, overlooking Lake Geneva in Lausanne, is well worth a visit. In fact, it was one of the first museums in Europe dedicated purely to photography. It has about 120,000 original photographs from the early days, right through to contemporary photographers.

Removals to Switzerland: Music and Opera Houses

From folk music to 20th century composers, such as Frank Martin and Arthur Honegger, there are all sorts of opportunities to discover more about Swiss music. The country’s most famous modern day composer is musician and harpist Andreas Vollenweider, whose 17 albums have sold over 15 million copies world-wide.

If you enjoy live performances of music, ballet and opera, Switzerland has several opera houses. These include: Bern Theatre, an opera house and theatre, Grand Théâtre de Genève, which shows live concerts, opera and dance performances and Theater Basel, which is home to the city’s ballet and opera houses. Theater St Gallen hosts about 390 performances a year of ballet, opera, music and theatre and Zurich Opera House has been the home of Zurich Opera since the late 19th century.

There are also various internationally renowned music festivals in Switzerland, the most famous of which are the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, held in July on the shores of Lake Geneva, and the Lucerne Festival, which takes place in summer.

For removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland, contact the experienced team at Hamiltons who will be able to help and advise you at every stage of your move.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland - Celebrating Swiss National Day

At Hamiltons our removals to Switzerland service is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your exact needs. We have 20 years experience in the removals industry and our friendly, efficient team will make every effort to ensure the safe and timely arrival of your household and/or office contents to your new home in Europe.

Hamiltons provide full or part load removals as well as removals for specialist goods, such as motor vehicles, pets, antiques and other valuables. Our staff can also arrange long or short term storage of your possessions, cleaning and packing.

Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

As you settle in your new country, you will most likely want to immerse yourself in the Swiss culture and there is plenty of opportunity do to this as there are a number of festivals held throughout the year. Most notable of these is Swiss National Day which is celebrated in each canton.

What is Swiss National Day?

If you require removals to Switzerland to settle here, Swiss National Day is celebrated throughout the country on August 1st. It has been a national holiday since 1994 so an added bonus is that workers are given at least some of the day off to join in the festivities!

The history of Swiss National Day dates back to 1291. It marks the alliance formed by the cantons of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden, and was the foundation upon which Switzerland was built. 

Swiss National Day is a bank holiday in Switzerland, offering plenty of fun for the whole family. Each Swiss commune has their own celebrations although Basel celebrates the occasion one day early on July 31st.

What to Expect on Swiss National Day

A series of events are held at local level and these include anything from fireworks, fokelore events, shooting contests, torchlight processions, speeches, music, barbecues, dancing, bonfires and food tents.

If you require removals to Switzerland, you will find several activities taking place in your region. However, some of these events are more well-known than others and these are fantastic to experience at first hand.

One of the most spectacular sights is the 25 metre high waterfalls, Rhine Falls, near Schaffhausen which is lit up on the national holiday.

Another big celebration is at the Rutli Meadow, Uri, situated above Lake Lucerne. It is a big family event which has a particular significance as it was here that the pledge of alliance was made. It is a colourful family event with music, dance, speeches and people dressed in national costume.

What to Eat on Swiss National Day?

If you are looking for a something special to eat to mark the day, each region and canton of Switzerland has its own specialities.

However, one thing that you would expect to see on Swiss National Day is Augustweggen, a sweet bread baked especially for this occasion. Each of the little rolls are marked with the national flag.

Another bread that you can find on the day, wherever you are in the country, is Butterzoph. This is a type of braided bread made with butter, milk and Kirsh and its name literally means “Butter plait.”

It is eaten for breakfast on Sundays, although it is often presented to a host on a special day, such as Swiss National Day. It can be eaten on its own or with sweet or savoury accompaniments.

World Wide Celebrations on Swiss National Day

Swiss National Day is not just held in Switzerland -  there are various events that are held world-wide. Events even take place as far afield as Africa where in 2007 16 kilograms of cheese was imported to Zimbabwe to mark the event.

In the USA, the biggest event is generally held in Manhattan, New York and brings thousands of spectators a year. Other US celebrations take place in the grounds of the Swiss embassy in Washington and in Swiss Park in Los Angeles where spectators can enjoy traditional music, dance and food.

Festivities are also held closer to home with annual events both in Berlin as well as Paris. Among the celebrations here are fireworks and the chance to sample traditional Swiss food such as raclette - which is a type of cheese as well as a traditional dish featuring this cheese.

Did you know that Swiss National Day is celebrated in the famous Betty’s six-strong chain of cafés in Yorkshire, UK? The day falls on Yorkshire Day and the two events are celebrated together. This is because Betty’s and Taylors of Harrogate has links with Switzerland. It was founded by a Swiss baker in the early part of the 20th century.

About Hamiltons

Hamiltons is British Association of Removers (BAR) registered for European and international removals including removals to Switzerland so you know that your commercial or household possessions are in safe hands.

If you require removals to Switzerland and are relocating from the UK or any other European or worldwide destination, contact us now and we can answer any queries you may have.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.

Removals to Switzerland: Famous People that Have Lived or Were Born in Switzerland

If you require removals to Switzerland in the near or not so distant future, you will be looking for a high class removals firm to ensure the safe arrival of your possessions at their destination.

UK based Hamiltons removals have 20 years’ experience in international removals, including removals to Switzerland and are regularly praised for our high quality service. We tailor our services to individual requirements and whether you require removals in full or part-load road lorries / containers, storage, packing, or even cleaning services, we can organise these on your behalf.

We provide removals to Switzerland from the UK and most other European or world wide destinations at very competitive prices. Just contact us for a free quotation or if you have any queries on either domestic or commercial moves, just get in touch and we will be happy to help.

Switzerland is a country known for its fine chocolate, dramatic scenery and superior watches. However, for those of you who are requiring removals to Switzerland, you may have already discovered that there is much more to this beautiful country than just these. From scientists, artists, actors and musicians, there are many famous people that have lived or were born in Switzerland. Here we shall look at some of the names connected to Switzerland.

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Famous People from Switzerland

Switzerland was the birthplace of a number of famous people past and present who have either altered the course of history, or made a name for themselves worldwide. Also included in this article are a few well-known names associated with the country that have lived here but may not have been born here. It is impossible to include all of them here so this is our top pick of some of the best.

Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein (1879-1955) was one of the most influential physicians of the 20th century and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. Although born in Germany, he lived part of his life in Switzerland and was educated here.

He was a pupil at the Aargau Cantonal School in Aarau in Switzerland between 1895 and 1896, and at the age of 17 he enrolled on a four year course in ETH in Zurich, which is named as one of the top universities in the world.

Einstein obtained Swiss citizenship in 1901 and his two sons were born in the country. The apartment where he lived in Bern from 1903-1905 is has been turned into a museum called Einstein House which features pictures and various documents relating to his scientific activities.

Roger Federer

Roger Federer is a world tennis champion born in Basel, Switzerland in 1981. In 2012 he was ranked number 1 player in the world by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). The father of two is considered by tennis critics and past and present players as the ‘greatest tennis player of all time’.

Ursula Andress

Ursula Andress was born in the Canton of Bern in 1936. She is known for her part as the bikini clad actress Honey Ryder in the first ever Bond Movie, Dr No. She is considered as the iconic bond girl after rising out of the sea in a white bikini. Years later the bikini sold at auction for over £40,000.

Andress appeared in a number of films including the 1967 film, Casino Royale, where she starred as Vesper Lynd.

Jean Henri Dunant

Businessman Jean Henri Dunant (1828-1910) also known as Henry Dunant, was born in Geneva, Switzerland. He was founder of the International Red Cross Movement and his ideas sparked the Geneva Convention in 1864.

Together with Frederic Passy, he was awarded the first ever Nobel Peace prize in 1901 for his role in both.

Daniel Peter

Daniel Peter (1836-1919) was the creator of milk chocolate after mixing cocoa with condensed milk (invented by his neighbour, another famous name, Henri Nestle). Peter first invented milk chocolate as a drink, and later (in the 1880’s) he invented milk chocolate to be eaten.  Now milk chocolate makes up the majority of the Swiss market (80 per cent).

Other famous names in Switzerland linked to the chocolate industry include Francois-Louis Cailler, Philippe Suchard, Rodolphe Lindt and Theodor Tobler.

Yves Rossy

Swiss pilot and inventor Yves Rossy was born in 1959. He has earned the nickname ‘Jetman’ because of his winged jetpack. He has made flights over the Alps, Rio de Janeiro’s skyline and above the Grand Canyon. He also appears in numerous air shows (including air shows in the UK) and has appeared on BBC’s Top Gear where he raced with one of Jeremy Clarkson’s co-presenters Richard Hammond.

Joanna Spyri

Children’s author Joanna Spyri (1827-1901) was born in the area of Hirzel, Switzerland. She wrote more than 50 stories although she is best known for the book Heidi, about an orphan who lives in the Alps with her grandfather. The book, written in just four weeks, has a stunning portrayal of the Swiss landscape.  

Le Corbusier

Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris (1887-1965), also known as Le Corbusier, was born in the Neuchatel canton of Switzerland, although mid-way through his life he became a French citizen.

Le Corbusier is regarded as one of the pioneers of modern architecture. His career was spread over 50 years and his buildings can be seen on three continents: Asia, Europe and America.

About Hamiltons

Hamiltons are experts in high quality removals to Switzerland and will assist you at every stage of your move. 

For queries on European removals, including removals to Switzerland, and to find out how we can make your move easier, just contact us using the link below and we will be happy to help.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.

Removals to Switzerland: Customs and Etiquette in Switzerland

Removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland is efficient and hassle free with Hamiltons at the helm. UK based Hamiltons have 20 years’ experience in international removals, including removals to Switzerland, and we are regularly praised for our first class service. 

Our removals to Switzerland is tailored to your individual requirements and our team of experts will make sure everything runs smoothly. We provide removals and shipping to Switzerland and most other European and world wide destinations at very competitive prices; just contact us for a free quotation.

To find out how we can offer you high standards of excellence for domestic or commercial removals to Switzerland, contact us now. We also provide road transport removals and shipping to most European and global destinations in full or part load 20 ft or 40 ft containers.

Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

If you do require removals to Switzerland, you will want to find out more about the country’s customs and etiquette to help you settle and adjust to your new life-style abroad. Here are some top tips.

Swiss Etiquette for Expats

Settling In

One of the first steps to moving to a new country is learning the language of the canton you are moving to. Although English is widely spoken and many Swiss are fluent in the language, they will always appreciate it if you make some attempt at their mother tongue, even if they answer back to you in English. If you are not confident in the language, at least learn basic phrases such as greetings, please and thank you.

When you are introduced to someone in the French or German speaking part it would be usual to kiss each other on the cheek (three kisses left - right - left). In business, a handshake would suffice. You should give good eye contact during the handshake.

Make sure you give your business card out to everyone present in a business meeting and to the receptionist at the desk beforehand.  

Work and Business

Be punctual both in and out of work, as being late is looked down upon. Be on time for all your appointments and start work promptly at 7 am. If it is likely you will be late for any reason, ring ahead first and explain.

Always use surnames and titles when you are addressing people and not first names unless you are asked to do this. First name terms are usually only used among close friends and family.

It is important to maintain a clean and tidy appearance at all times, especially in the workplace.  A suit and tie is fine for men and either a suit or a dress would be acceptable attire for women.

Always maintain good posture when you are talking to people in any business or social situation. It is also advisable to avoid putting your hands in your pockets when you are having a conversation.

You should never call a business client at home unless it is really vital.

Daily Life – Home

The Swiss are very reserved and tend to keep themselves to themselves, so they are unlikely to invite you over to diner straight away. Sometimes, expats find it difficult to integrate as a result and stick to their own communities; however, if you do learn the language, it is far easier to make new friends.

If you are invited to someone’s home, leave before midnight and send your host a gift, either before the party or the next day, along with a thank you note. A gift of flowers is fine to give for this.

There are other top tips on daily home life. Wherever you live in Switzerland, the Swiss are respectful of each other and it is not acceptable to make noise after 10 pm.

And, in regards to parking, even if it is just for a short time, do not park in other people’s parking spaces, as the police are likely to be called out.

Daily Life – Public

If eating out at a restaurant, don’t put your hands on your lap, but on the table; although, don’t put your elbows on the table.

If you walk across a road at a red light, you can expect an instant fine. There is an organised system of traffic rules and regulations including that drivers should stop at pedestrian crossings to let walkers cross. 

Just as in Britain, littering it is frowned upon in Switzerland and you should put your litter in the appropriately labelled bin for recycling. Sometimes there are set times to do this and the reason is to avoid noise.

For this reason, don’t speak loudly in public, as this is not considered acceptable.

The Swiss law makes it a civic duty to help someone in need. Do be aware that if you refuse to help someone in an emergency situation, there is a law against this and you can be punished for it. Also, make sure that you are always courteous and respectful to the elderly.

If you require removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland from the UK or any other country, contact the experts at Hamiltons via email or telephone and we will be happy to help.

Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Removals to Switzerland: Ten Reasons to Relocate to Switzerland

If you require removals to Switzerland, Hamiltons Removals provide a high quality service tailored to your requirements. Hamiltons have 20 years in the removals industry and are experienced in removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland.
Our removals to Switzerland service is personalised to suit your requirements and we provide road transport or shipping to Switzerland in full or part load 20 ft or 40 ft containers. We also offer removals to Switzerland of specialist goods, including valuables and bulky items such as harps, pianos and other musical instruments.

We are British Association of Removers (BAR) registered for international removals, including removals to Switzerland, so you can be assured of high standards. If you are relocating abroad from the UK or from any other destination to Switzerland, contact us by telephone or email and our experienced staff will be happy to help.

Removals to Switzerland –  click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

If you are considering removals to Switzerland, here are some of the reasons which makes a move to this country so attractive.

Salary

The top reason for relocating abroad is to get ahead in the job market and achieve a better salary. In fact, most of those who move abroad find that they have more disposable income than before. For this reason, Switzerland is certainly a very attractive country to move to because salaries here can be as much as double - or even triple – the salary of many other European countries. Studies show that those living in cities such as Geneva and Zurich have the highest incomes in the world. Many of the jobs for expats revolve around finance, banking and insurance.

Education

If you are moving to Switzerland as a family, you can rest assured as the Swiss educational system is among the best in the world. In addition to the public schools, there are also a number of international schools and English schools in Switzerland. There are also 12 universities and seven regional associations of Higher Educational Institutions of applied sciences. Switzerland has the second highest number of foreign students in higher education (Australia has the highest).

Health

The Swiss healthcare system is also among the world’s best and life expectancy is very high (79 years for men and 84 years for women). It is compulsory to take out healthcare insurance within three months of settling in the country. But, for this, you can expect excellent standards and high quality of care.

Scenery

Switzerland is a country famous for its stunning scenery: dramatic mountains and calm and peaceful lakes. The temperature varies from place to place according to location and elevation. The climate tends to be more Mediterranean in the south and more continental in the north. Summers are normally warm and humid and temperatures can reach up to 30C in July and August. January and February are the coldest months.

Sport

If you are active and enjoy sport, Switzerland is a great place to settle. It is a country known for its winter sports activities, which include snowboarding, skiing and mountaineering and these are enjoyed by locals and natives alike. The country attracts more than 8 million international visitors each year, spending an estimated £10 billion. Visitors are attracted by the many tourist hot-spots and sporting destinations, including the world famous ski resorts of Verbier and Zermatt.

Multi-National

Switzerland is a multi-national country which is open to foreigners. Indeed, more than 20 per cent of the population is made up of resident and temporary foreign workers. There are also as many as four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. English is also commonly spoken and there are many opportunities for English speaking workers. However, it is always worthwhile speaking the language of the canton you are moving to, to help with the settling in process.

Safety

Another of the common reasons why people relocate abroad is for a better lifestyle. Switzerland is a very safe place to live and raise a family and is, in fact, one of the safest places to settle in Europe. Violent crime is almost unheard of. However, there is petty crime such as pickpockets in the touristy areas. The emergency number to call in Switzerland is 117.

Stability

Switzerland has a history of neutrality and is one of the most stable democracies in the world. It also has a very stable economy.

Clean

Switzerland tops the list as the cleanest country in the world according to the Environmental Performance Index. The country has a reputation for cleanliness and care of its environment. 

Family Friendly

Finally, people also choose to live here because they believe they are giving their family a better quality of life. Many British people who move here feel their children will be more secure in Switzerland and that their off-spring will grow up in a child friendly environment.

If you require information on any aspect of our international removals to Switzerland and shipping to Switzerland service, or would like a free quote, contact us at Hamiltons Removals and we will be happy to assist.

Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Removals to Switzerland: Moving to Switzerland: Summer in Switzerland

Removals to Switzerland mean the start of a whole new life for either family or work reasons and those that do move to this beautiful country can benefit from its stunning countryside, snow and winter sports and its glorious summer weather!

Whatever your reasons for moving, Hamiltons can help with all aspects of removals to Switzerland and can turn your dream of moving to Switzerland into a reality. Our professional service for removals to Switzerland will save you time and money and take the stress out of your house move.

Removals to Switzerland with Hamiltons are provided for all domestic and commercial moves to and from the UK and Europe. With the exclusive use of a vehicle you can arrange specific collection and delivery dates of your belongings, or take advantage of our part load service where multiple collections from several people making removals to Switzerland, share one lorry. We also provide shipping to Switzerland via container or air freight from most international destinations.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service, or contact us to discuss your move.

Moving to Switzerland - Summer Weather

The weather in Switzerland is dominated by the Alps that run from east to west across the county, and weather conditions are dependent on your position in relation to those mountains. Therefore it’s important to check the precise region when looking at weather forecasts.

In the urban areas the climate is reasonably temperate all year round but in general anything south of the Alps will be slightly warmer than places north of the mountain range and of course snow and ice prevail on the very peak of those mountains regardless of the season. Average temperatures in July in Zurich for example are 64 F, 17.7 C whereas Geneva in the South has a slightly warmer July mean temperature of 67F, 19.2C.

In general Switzerland enjoys a very all round moderate climate with no real extremes of heat or cold, but in summer, which lasts from June to September, maximum temperatures can reach up to 35C, 95F and the weather is drier than at other times of the year.

Summer also brings out the natural beauty of Switzerland, with the famous alpine flowers at the height of their colour and fragrance in June and July. Evenings in summer can see a sudden dip in temperature for a chilly night along with summer storms and some night time rain. It is this balance of sunshine in the daytime and rain at night that helps keep the countryside green and lush all year round.

Moving to Switzerland - Lifestyle in Summer

When summer comes the Swiss head for hills, or the water! If temperatures do soar to the heights of 95F then the place to go is the mountains for an alpine retreat or one of the many lakes to cool off. Walking and hiking in the hills and the Alps is always popular and some of the lakes, like Lake Lugano in the south, even have man-made sandy beaches and palm trees for a summer holiday feel. 

However, with 8.6million visitors coming to Switzerland every year, summer is often the time when the Swiss explore and go off to visit the other countries they have borders with. Germany, Italy and France are all in easy reach by car or train.

For those staying at home to enjoy the summer the emphasis is very much on outdoor living, with clean air and a mild sunny climate to enjoy. As well as the mountains and lakes there are many wide open, green spaces for the Swiss people to relax in over the summer, such as the Swiss National Park in Zernez and several nature parks, like Parc Ela in Savognin which is the country’s largest regional nature park.

Work life balance in Switzerland is one of the best in Europe and indeed recently Switzerland was voted the sixth best country in the world for its attitude to a good work life balance. Switzerland has many public holidays, some national and some regional for a particular canton. The biggest of these is the Swiss national day on 1st August, when most banks and public institutions close.

Moving to Switzerland - Summer Activities

Removals to Switzerland customers will find that summer is full of activities here and there are many tourist destinations to visit.

A major sightseeing trail is the 35-kilometer long Swiss Path, which starts on the Rütli Mountain, and leads around Lake Urn, ending in Brunnen at Platz der Auslandschweizer. This hiking path has many other sights along the way including the old Axenstrasse, the little castle of Beroldingen and the Tell Chapel.

Nature and outdoor living is a huge part of the Swiss summer and one very popular attraction is the Nature Park Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut situated between Lake Geneva, La Gruyère and Pays D'Enhaut. This important nature reserve combines areas of outstanding beauty with alpine forests and pastures, wide valleys and dramatic rock faces, with man-made features such as local buildings and bridges made from stone, wood and slate, and historic monuments like the monastery at Valsainte and the ‘Grand Chalet’ in Rossinière. This area is also famous for its cheese making and produces Gruyère, L'Etivaz and Vacherin.

As well as mountains and green natural areas the Swiss countryside is also dominated by water with spectacular lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Toma and Lake Biel. The other important body of water in Switzerland is the river Rhine and at Neuhaussen you can visit Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls. Circular tours of the falls are available for you to observe this natural wonder up close, standing on platforms that protrude out over the river. Riverboat tours can take you from the Rhine Falls to the nearby castles of Wörth and Laufen.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service, or contact us to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland: Moving to Switzerland With Pets

Removals to Switzerland, even with pets, can be made so much easier with the help of a professional removal firm like Hamiltons. Hamiltons can help with all aspects of removals to Switzerland including the careful transportation of pets and horses. We provide a full range of removals to Switzerland for both domestic and commercial customers from both the UK, Europe and most international destinations and will tailor our service to suit your individual requirements.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service, or contact us to discuss your move.

Read on for more information on taking your pet to Switzerland with you.

Removals to Switzerland: Deciding to Take Your Pet

A pet is a big part of the family so when embarking upon removals to Switzerland many people choose to take their pet with them when they move abroad. Taking a pet abroad can take a bit of preparation and forward planning, but providing he or she is in good health, there is no reason your pet cannot be taken with you to your new home.

One factor that might affect the decision to take a pet abroad is the age of the animal and this does need to be taken into consideration. Pets aged up to 8 years old can often be insured for a move overseas but for older animals this may be more of a problem and you would need to seek an individual quote from an insurance company.

Removals to Switzerland: Taking Your Pet - The Process

Moving a pet abroad can take a lot of planning and preparation but with certain steps you can make the process as easy and as stress free for the animal as possible.

Each country has its own rules and regulations on the immigration of animals and some countries do not allow certain types of animals into their country at all. It is always wise to consult the official consulate before making arrangements to relocate a pet to a foreign country.

Here is a step-by-step guide for the process of preparing for removals to Switzerland, which includes a pet.

1. The only form of identification that the Swiss authorities recognise is a microchip, which must be implanted either before or on the day of a rabies vaccination. The microchip must be ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785. If the microchip is not either of these then the animal must have its own scanner, which is fixed onto its cargo crate.
    
2. Pets need to be fully vaccinated with all injections up to date. For dogs this means Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Leptospirosis, (DHLPP) and Rabies within the last 12 months or a minimum of 4 weeks before arrival. For cats they require Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP), and Rabies within the last 12 months and a minimum of 4 weeks before arrival.
    
3. Pets must have visited a qualified vet prior to transportation to receive an EU Vet Health Certificate (Form ED#: 998). Once issued this certificate is valid for 10 days until the date the animal is checked at customs.
    
4. The following documentation must be sent to your local USDA for their approval and to be stamped: Microchip Implantation Record, Rabies Certificate, vets Letter and EU Vet Health Certificate.
    
5. All animals also require an International Health Certificate, which your vet should have and must be filled in within 10 days of your intended removals to Switzerland.
    
6. All of the above original documentation must travel with the pet in question.
    
7. The other documentation needed to clear customs for removals to Switzerland customers is a copy of the owner’s passport, a note from the owner’s employer if relocating for work reasons and a copy of the owner’s flight itinerary if not traveling with your pet.

Pets can now have their own passports and these guidelines primarily deal with cats and dogs so if you need to relocate a different type of animal during your removals to Switzerland then it is wise to check with the Swiss embassy online and your vet for quarantine laws.

Moving Pets to Switzerland: About Out Service

Hamiltons National and International Removals deal with all aspects of pet export and import. All areas of quarantine, paperwork and injections are dealt with swiftly to make sure your pets are moved in comfort and with the minimum of distress caused to the animal. Also by dealing with all the paperwork and customs this allows you to get on with your move abroad. Hamiltons will make sure that your pets are transported in the appropriate aircraft, which has a fully pressurised and heated hold. If you are not travelling with your pets then Hamiltons will arrange for the animal to be collected or placed in quarantine for the necessary length of time.

If you wish to transport horses to Switzerland then Hamiltons have equine experts who will travel with the animals all the way. Horses are fed and provided with water every 3 to 4 hours and unloaded to exercise every 6 to 8 hours. The safety and comfort of the horses is our top priority and we only use safe and reliable transportation for the journey

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service, or contact us to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland: Moving to Switzerland - A Guide to Switzerland’s Winter Sports

Whatever your reasons for moving abroad, Hamiltons Removals have years' of experience in removals to Switzerland and other European destinations and can guide you through all aspects of your move.

People require removals to Switzerland for a wide variety of reasons, including work and business opportunities. It may be that you work in finance and get the chance to join the 100,000 or so other English speaking residents in Geneva - a leading financial and business centre; or get granted an opportunity to work in Zurich - a major centre for international finance.

It could be that you are planning a move to Switzerland to be nearer to family and want to bring up children in a safer environment with the support of your relatives. Or it may be that you and your family require removals to Switzerland to enjoy a better standard of living. After all, Switzerland's quality of life is rated the best in the world with Zurich as the top city to live in, closely followed by Geneva.

Some people also choose a move to Switzerland to work in the Swiss Alps, or to set up a business venture and take advantage of the amazing winter sports on offer. Certainly the Swiss are very health conscious and cite skiing and mountaineering among their leisure activities.

Whatever your reasons for moving to Switzerland, Hamiltons offer removals to Switzerland from the UK, Europe or any other part of the world. We can provide full load shipping and removals in 20 ft or 40 ft containers, groupage (part load) services and air freight. Our services are designed to suit you and the importation of vehicles, specialist removals (such as artwork and other valuables), storage and packing can be provided as required.

Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Although you may not be moving to Switzerland purely because of the lifestyle it offers, a move to Switzerland can give you access to a wide range of winter sports in the beautiful Swiss Alps. Here we shall look more closely at why Switzerland is such a great destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Moving to Switzerland - About the Swiss Alps

The Alps is one of the things we most associate with Switzerland and it covers more than half the country. It is the destination for beautiful and dramatic scenery including snow topped mountains, ice age glaciers and vast lakes.

This mountainous region stretches from Austria and Slovenia through Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Italy, France and Monaco. The highest mountain is Mont Blanc on the French-Italian border which stands at 15,782 ft.

If you want to move to Switzerland to enjoy the scenery and benefit from all the sporting activities, you will not be disappointed. See below to find out more about the winter sports on offer.

Moving to Switzerland: Winter Sports on Offer

The Alps as a whole attracts some 50 million people a year and is popular for a range of sports including hiking, paragliding, mountain biking, swimming, sailing, tobogganing and Nordic and Alpine Skiing.

Of course, Switzerland is not the only place to go for winter sporting activities, but is one of the world's top skiing destinations - and is the home of Alpine skiing (skiing with fixed heel bindings) also known as downhill skiing or piste skiing.

One of the reasons why skiing is so attractive in Switzerland, is because its resorts are well organised, clean and efficient. Switzerland has some of the best ski resorts in the world and their chalets are among the most recognisable and also among the most luxurious.

Swiss ski resorts tend to attract more exclusive clientele compared to resorts in France and Italy. They also tend to be smaller, more welcoming and offer more of a traditional experience. As a result, skiing in Switzerland tends to be more expensive than in other European ski resorts. However, if you are looking for cheaper deals, it is best to time your break for the end of the skiing season (at the end of March). Bear in mind that January and February are the peak times, and also the most expensive time for a ski break.

As Swiss pistes are at the highest altitude, they tend to be more difficult, so snowboarding and skiing in Switzerland is generally for the more experienced (although there are slopes for beginners too and every ski resort has a range of different runs with varying levels of difficulty). However, if you are looking for excitement and sporting adventure, you will certainly find it here. Although there are no resorts strictly for snowboarding, many ski resorts cater for snowboarding activities and these are mainly based in the south of Switzerland.

Skiing or snowboarding in Switzerland gives you a chance to enjoy a wonderful break in the mountains and take advantage of the beautiful scenery and delicious long leisurely lunches - which can run on for a couple of hours.

A must while on holiday is to sample the fondue or, another specialty, Raclette (melted cheese served with potatoes and pickled onions) which is eaten before the cheese sets. Après-ski you will always find plenty of bars to relax and unwind in.

Moving to Switzerland - The Swiss Ski Resorts

Switzerland has some top class ski resorts and among them are the world famous resorts of Zermatt, St Moritz and Verbier. Here we shall take a closer look at these three ski resorts, but there are plenty of others across the country.

The resort town of St Moritz in the Engadine Valley, is known as the birthplace of winter sports holidays - with the first tourist office in Switzerland opening up here in 1864. Five star accommodation is offered at the Badrutts Palace Hotel, which is known for its elegance, luxury and first class service. The hotel has a staff of 520 and is the biggest employer in St Moritz. The most popular winter sports in the resort are skiing, snowboarding, hiking and tobogganing.

The resort town of Zermatt is known throughout the world for its skiing and is overlooked by the Matterhorn, one of the highest peaks in the Alps. Much of the economy is built on tourism and there is skiing continuously throughout the year. Skiing is divided into four areas: Sunnegga, Klein Matterhorn, Schwarzee and Gonergrat. It is a car free zone so visitors and the locals get about by electro buses, shuttles, electro taxis and even horse drawn carriages.

Verbier, in the south west of Switzerland in the canton of Valais, is another popular place to ski and is seen as one of the top off-piste locations in the world. It attracts many celebrities including the British, Swedish and Danish Royal Families. It is one of the largest holiday resorts and places to ski in the Swiss Alps and tends to attract younger visitors than the other tourist resorts. Although it attracts off-piste skiers it is not recommended as this is potentially fatal due to the risk of avalanches etc.

Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Removals to Switzerland: Moving to Switzerland - Guide to the Swiss People

Moving to Switzerland? If so, Hamiltons provides high quality competitively priced removals to Switzerland from the UK, Europe and worldwide. We have a wealth of experience in commercial and domestic international relocations and our removals to Switzerland service operates weekly.

Choose from our dedicated (full load) or groupage (part load) service, or our specials service where you get to choose the collection and delivery dates for your removals to Switzerland. We tailor our removals to Switzerland services to suit you and this can include full packing, unpacking, storage, removal of specialist items, and also cleaning of the house that you are moving from.

Our removals to Switzerland service includes all the major cities and Cantons. This includes Geneva, a global city where many international organisations are based; Zurich, the financial centre of Switzerland and gateway to the Alps; Bern, the capital of Switzerland; Basel, a major industrial centre for the chemical and pharmaceutical industry; Lausanne, known for being the home of the Olympic movement; and Lucerne, a tourist destination on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

To help you enjoy a smooth transition to your new way of life, read our at a glance guide to Swiss culture, customs and etiquette.

Moving to Switzerland - Cultures, Customs and Facts About the Swiss People

When you think of Switzerland, some of the things that spring to mind include chocolate, watches, clocks, pharmaceuticals, banking and finance - it also conjures up images of snow, the Alps and skiing.
Switzerland has a diverse cultural heritage and even the first language of the Swiss people depends on which part of the country you live in.

Although the official languages are German, French, Italian and Romansch, some only speak one language and this will be the main language used in the part of the country they live in. They may also speak either one of the other two official languages, or have English as a second language.

German is spoken by 60 per cent of the population but dialects can vary between the Cantons. Romansch, a Latin-based language, is spoken by one per cent of the population, who live in the eastern Alps.

Moving to Switzerland: The Swiss People's Approach to Work

A lot of emphasis is put on a child's education and students are tested several times during their education to determine their future paths, including the courses they will take and their careers. Parents take the responsibility for their child's education very seriously which has reaped rewards as the Swiss have one of the world's highest literacy rates, currently at 99 per cent.

Women in Switzerland have more limited opportunities in the workforce than in any other western European country - they were not given the right to vote in all Cantons until 1990. Generally a married woman's role is seen as raising and educating their children and maintaining the home. While more women are now entering the workforce, they often leave after marriage or having children as there are a number of pressures on those who want to maintain a career.

About a fifth of the population are made up of resident foreigners from various countries including England, Spain, France, Greece, Serbia, Italy and the Middle East. Indeed, the Swiss are dependent on foreigners as transient workers, tourists, and for investment. As far as investment is concerned, the government applies the same incentives to foreign and domestic businesses.

The Swiss have a longer working week than many other countries, which is 42 hours. The working day is usually 8 am until 5.30 pm with an hour's lunch break. However, they value their holiday time, with official holidays occurring at various times throughout the year. They also have more generous sick leave.

Swiss people tend to be reserved, independent, orderly, clean, efficient, courteous and disciplined. They also value quality and craftsmanship which is evident in their products, including watches, clocks and wood carvings. The Swiss value honesty and hard work and being late for a business appointment is frowned upon.

Moving to Switzerland: The Swiss People's Approach to Family Life

The family takes on a central role in Swiss life, with holidays and weekends kept private. It will be unusual to be invited to a Swiss colleague's home because home life is so closely protected. The Swiss enjoy family times at weekends which can include walks, skiing or dining out. It would not be acceptable to call a business person at home unless it was really urgent.

Moving to Switzerland: Swiss Culture

As a result of strong regionalism in Switzerland, there is no individual cultural heritage and the Swiss promote all cultural activity across the board. 

You can see folk art alive and well all over Switzerland and this is predominant in music, dance, wood carving and embroidery.

Museums, galleries and art collections can be found all over the country, from the large cities to the smaller towns. Switzerland has also produced a number of renowned writers, including Jean Jacques Rousseau.

Moving to Switzerland: Swiss Customs

If you are moving to Switzerland there are certain customs and etiquette you should follow to allow for an easier transition to your new country.

If you are at a business or social meeting, shake hands with everyone in the room, including the children, and do this when you first meet everyone and when you are leaving. Maintain eye contact when you shake hands and always keep good posture.

Don't use first names as this is for friends and family, instead use titles and last names unless you are told otherwise.

At a meal you should try everything that you are offered and also try to finish everything you have been served as it is not considered polite to leave it. Don't ask for the salt and pepper unless it is already on the table. Keep your hands on the table at all times, but your elbows off the table.

Removals to Switzerland click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.

Removals to Switzerland | Moving to Switzerland - The Swiss Alps

Making the decision to move your life to another country is not only very exciting, it can also be overwhelming, and Hamiltons are the professionals you’ll need to help with your removals to Switzerland. Catering for all domestic, commercial and holiday home removals to Switzerland, Hamiltons will ship from the UK, Europe and international destinations and of course, back the other way.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland: Holiday Home Removals

One of the most popular areas of Switzerland for holiday homes is the Alps. Covering three fifths of the country, the famous mountain region provides a year-round destination with clear skies, breath-taking scenery and a vast range of winter and summer sports and activities. The completely tailored removals to Switzerland service means that you get exactly what you want, and your move to your holiday home in the Alps will go without a hitch.

You will also get complete peace of mind, as Hamiltons are members of the British Association of Removals (BAR), ensuring that the highest standards are always met and that your possessions arrive at their destination safely, and on time. With over 20 years’ experience and services ranging from packing and cleaning to storage and arranging for your vehicles to be imported, Hamiltons is the company to call on for your removals to Switzerland. The dedicated removals to Switzerland service offers either sole use of a vehicle, or a part load option, where several customers share the same vehicle. This offers cost savings, but delivery times can vary depending on the logistics.

Removals to Switzerland: Life in the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps belong to the steepest and most contorted mountain chain, known as the Western Alpine group, and are probably best seen via one of the many scenic trains which form the easiest way of getting around. Many of the more popular routes, such as the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, are open all year round and offer dramatic scenery like ice age glaciers, snow-peaked mountains and massive lakes.

Skiing is probably the one activity most people associate with the Alps. The major destinations for winter sports are generally located in the cantons of Valais, Bernese Oberland and Graubunden, and some villages, like Zermatt, Grindelwald, Murren and Wengen, are also car-free. The ski season starts around November and runs to as late as May, although most resorts open for skiing from December to April. Many stay open and keep the tramways running in summer to enable hikers and mountaineers to reach high altitudes without too much effort, and enjoy the 23,000 km of well-maintained trails in the mountainous areas. The Klein Matterhorn is the highest summit of the European continent accessible by cable car.

At the gateway to canton Valais is the Portes du Soleil-Chablais region, which offers a wide range of sport, recreation and culture. A summer paradise for mountain biking, horse riding and hiking, it has leisure parks, animal parks and educational trails, and offers historical and cultural sights too. Monthey is the place for theatres and shopping, for a bit of history visit the town of St Maurice, and lakeside St Gingoph is the centre for water sports.

Hiking and skiing also form the basis of pastimes in Heidiland, over in Eastern Switzerland. Named after Johanna Spyri’s world famous Heidi story, written in 1880, the area has a Heidi path, and the musical has been performed here several times. It also has the spa city of Bad Ragaz, offering golf courses, casino and grand hotels while Sargans and Werdenberg have medieval castles for the historians.

Lake Thun sits on the northern rim of the Alps, in the middle of the canton Bernese Oberland, surrounded by panoramic mountains like Niesen and Stockhorn, cozy villages and the cities of Thun and Interlaken. Thun has a medieval old town and Oberhofen Castle, while Interlaken is the ideal place to start your visit to the Bernese Oberland. Another castle can be found in the Bay of Spiez, along with a number of small vineyards, and around the coastline sit 12 Romanesque churches, all over one thousand years old, that are well worth the visit.

The weather is by far the most changeable thing in the mountains. Mountain ranges are often the dividing line between weather fronts, and the Alps are usually the border between the cooler Northern European climate and the warmer Southern climate. Adjoining valleys may experience different weather at the same time, and one area might experience complete change within the hour. It pays to be prepared in the Alps, and the most sensible thing to do is dress in a number of thin layers, rather than a few thicker ones. And always have a waterproof jacket.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland | Moving to Switzerland - Top Tourist Attractions

If you are moving to Switzerland from the UK Europe or an international location, you’ll need a professional and reliable company to help with your removals to Switzerland. Hamiltons have over 20 years’ experience with all types of removals to Switzerland, and offer a completely tailored service to suit all needs. From domestic to corporate, large to small, and including complete packing and even importation of vehicles, Hamiltons can help make your removals to Switzerland relaxed and stress free.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland: Why Move to Switzerland?

It’s difficult to find anyone with negative opinions about Switzerland. The almost endless list of benefits to the residents also makes for a great list of reasons for the tourist, and is also why many choose to move here after visiting. From quality of life to clean air, thousands of kilometres of cycle paths to the very efficient public transport system, and from the breath-taking scenery to the job opportunities, Switzerland is hard to beat.

Whether you are a first-timer or have lived in the country before, Switzerland offers more attractions than you will ever have time to see or do. There are a large number of both local and international festivals, museums and galleries on every corner, villages in valleys, breath-taking lakes and spectacular mountain landscapes, and all this is concentrated into small country squeezed between five others - Austria, France, Germany, Italy and Liechtenstein.

The size of the country is another bonus, with major attractions close to one another and, thanks to the excellent public transport system, easy to get to. It is split into three major geographical areas: the Alps, the Mittelland, or ‘middle land’ that hosts many of the big cities and lakes, and the Jura in the north, including the city of Basel and the river Rhein.

Here are just some of the highlights, Switzerland has to offer.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Moving to Switzerland - The Alps

The Alps occupy over half of Switzerland, and extend from the east of France to the west of Germany and Austria, bordered by Italy in the south. Perhaps the most famous of all the peaks is The Matterhorn, with the beautiful village of Zermatt in the Valais region. Situated at the foot of The Matterhorn, the village is traffic-free, and only accessible by train, which winds its way around mountains and over gorges. Full of half-timbered chalets, old houses and cabins, with a number of restaurants and shops, it offers over 250 miles of marked footpaths in the summer, and clean and white snow for the skiers in winter. Gondolas and cable cars will take you to the peaks and glaciers, with mountain top restaurants, and why not take the popular cogwheel railway to nearby Gornergrat for stunning views of the Alps.

The alpine region (or canton) of Graubunden is an exciting playground the whole year round. You can bike or hike through over 150 valleys, such as Engadin, in summer and ski in the mountain dry air in winter. Take a journey on the Rhatische Bahn, a 230 mile private train track with bridges, viaducts and tunnels through the countryside to take in the sights before returning to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of resorts like Davos and St Moritz, and the city of Zurich is only an hour away.

Moving to Switzerland - Lake Geneva

Switzerland has 16 lakes with a surface area larger than 10 square km, and hundreds of other smaller ones. The best known is probably Lake Geneva, known locally as Lac Léman, or Lac de Genève, which shares the border with France and has a number of notable cities on its shore including Lausanne, Montreux, Vevey and Geneva on the Swiss side, and Evian on the French. It is the largest lake in Europe, and after major work to restore the waters of the lake in the last 30 years, it now hosts a long list of leisure activities including sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving and yacht racing.

Geneva itself, often referred to as the ‘peace capital of the world’, is the headquarters of many international organisations such as the Red Cross and is among the top three cities in the world for quality of life. A paradise for luxury goods and high-end accommodation, shoppers should head for Rue Basses, Rue du Rhone, Rue de la Confédération, Rue du Marché, Rue de la Croix-d'Or and Rue du Mont-Blanc.

The city has the world’s tallest fountain (the Jet d’Eau), the Orchestra of the Suisse Romande, the Opera House, the St Pierre Cathedral and numerous galleries and museums including the Red Cross, the Natural History and the Horology, where you can find out about the importance of clock and watch making to the local economy.

By contrast, Switzerland’s southern most region, Italian speaking Ticano, including the lakeside resorts of Lugano and Locarno, boast of a Mediterranean Riviera like atmosphere, and thanks to their subtropical climate and you will find palm trees, magnolias and chestnuts growing happily.

This has barely scratched the surface of Switzerland’s attractions, and each region on its own has more than enough to keep you occupied for a number of years. If you’re moving to Switzerland, scheduling your spare time needs to be high on your list.

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland - Importing Your Car or Vehicle & Driving Switzerland

Having made the daunting decision to move to Switzerland, the next stage is to decide how, and with Hamiltons, our removals to Switzerland team can help you, and all your possessions, get there safely. Take advantage of our expert knowledge, years of experience and tailored removals to Switzerland services for all or just part of your move, whether it’s domestic, corporate or commercial.

If you’ve decided to take one or more of your valuable vehicles with you, Hamiltons have specialist vehicles with ramps to look after your car, motorbike, boat, jet skis, quad bikes and even farm machinery. Removals to Switzerland and importing vehicles to Switzerland are easier with Hamiltons.

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A Guide to Importing Your Car Into Switzerland

It’s always tricky finding out the right forms and information needed to import a car into a European country, and of course they all have their own rules. Switzerland is no different. If your vehicle has been owned for more than 6 months and is for personal use, you can import it without paying any duty and only have to make sure you complete a clearance request on arrival in Switzerland.

If you have owned your vehicle for less than 6 months, then import duty will have to be paid. Either way, you will always have to notify the Swiss customs as soon as any of your vehicles arrive in Switzerland.

Along with the forms, notifications and clearance request, you will also need to provide a number of both personal and vehicle documents. This includes your insurance, logbook and emissions test certificate, but you will also need full technical information on the car, and the 13.20 customs form. As well as these you will be asked to provide a receipt, proof of the vehicle’s origin, proof of your identity - in theory you should already have your passport with you - and your driving license.

The next step is to register for Swiss number plates, and you will have to do this within the first 12 months of your stay. You should receive the necessary forms from the Road Traffic Office (Services des Automobiles et de la Navigation) within the first month, after Customs have completed the report required for the technical inspection.

Your car must pass this technical inspection, or ‘Contrôle Technique du Véhicule’ within the first year, and the Motor Registration Office in your canton, or region, will provide you with all the information you need.

Getting your car into Switzerland is a lot easier through either Geneva or Basel, as most of the other smaller entry points need prior notice to process any importation, and this simply adds to the list of things to remember. Don’t forget, details can always change so please make sure you check with the relevant authorities before you move - of course, Hamiltons are the experts on removals to Switzerland, so why not get us to help.

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Driving in Switzerland - A Guide to Swiss Roads

Switzerland has a dense road network, which has an excellent standard of maintenance thanks to the high level of investment, including over 1,800 km of motorway. Its position as a transit country linking Northern and Southern Europe means that it suffers from a large amount of freight traffic and, during the holiday season, the trucks are joined by holidaymakers in cars and caravans.

Car ownership is still on the increase, despite the success of the Mobility Car Sharing Scheme, launched over 15 years ago. The scheme now offers over 2,600 vehicles in 1,340 stations around Switzerland and links up with similar schemes in Austria and Germany. Customers can pre-book a vehicle for periods from 1 hour to a number of days, and it releases you from the commitments of full time vehicle ownership.

Switzerland has a low tolerance for law breaking - on-the-spot fines are common, the Police may request that any driver undergo a breath test or, indeed, a drugs test at any time, and speeding fines are severe.

Unleaded and Diesel are commonly available, but Leaded is not, and there are only eight LPG outlets in the country. Some of the automatic pumps struggle to recognise UK PINs, so it’s always advisable to check with your card issuer. Dipped headlights are recommended during the day for all vehicles, and motorcyclists must wear a helmet.

To drive in Switzerland, road users must buy and clearly display a vehicle sticker, known locally as a ‘vignette’, which currently costs CHF40. The fine for not displaying one is the cost plus CHF100. Theyare available before you leave the UK, from customs offices, or service stations and garages throughout the country.

Snow chains are compulsory in some areas, usually indicated by appropriate signage, and every vehicle must be equipped with a warning triangle, kept within easy reach - not in the boot. Alpine winters can provide a challenge to even the most experienced driver, and checking road conditions is always advised before departing.

Speed limits are similar to those in the rest of Europe, 50kmh (31mph) in built up areas, 80kmh (49mph) in other areas while semi-motorways have a limit of 100kmh (62mph), and on motorways it’s 120kmh (74mph). And, don’t forget to drive on the right!

Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Removals to Switzerland | Moving to Switzerland: Finding and Buying a Property

Using specialists can make the sometimes-overwhelming process of moving from one country to another much easier, and for removals to Switzerland Hamiltons are the specialists. Hamiltons offer various levels of service depending on how involved you want to be, and will make your removals to Switzerland stress-free, smooth and painless.

Perfect for domestic, corporate and commercial clients alike, the tailored service offers everything you’re likely to need from packing and storage to cleaning and pet services, transportation and even part-load options. You will also get peace of mind - Hamiltons Removals have over 20 years’ experience of removals to Switzerland, and are also members of the British Association of Removals (BAR), giving you reassurance and ensuring high standards are always met.

When you need to organise your family, possessions and logistics for a move abroad, and are searching for a cost-effective, tailored and professional removals to Switzerland service, you need look no further than Hamiltons Removals.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Finding and Buying a Property in Switzerland

Step One: Find a Property
If you have decided to permanently stay in Switzerland and have settled in a certain area then now is a good time to buy a property. Find yourself a trustworthy and experienced local estate agent who can assist you and find properties for you to view. 

Step Two: Organise Your Finances and Put in an Offer
Once you have found a suitable property then you need to check that you can get a mortgage and that, when combined with any savings you have, will cover the price of the property. Then you can put in an offer, which an estate agent can help you with.

You can also try to buy privately by contacting the owner of your chosen property directly. In this case the deposit would need to go directly to the seller but make sure you have it in writing that the deposit will be refunded to you should the seller pull out of the sale for any reason.

Step Three: Decide Whether to Have a Survey
It is important to know that in Switzerland structural surveys are not the norm, although you can ask to have one carried out should you wish to. Worth noting too is that estates agents in Switzerland are not legally bound to inform you of any pre-existing problems with a property or its location and in some cases will even gloss over these to make the sale. An architect’s valuation will be made available to you and will hold information on the property so it is worth reading this carefully.

Step Four: Negotiate a Moving Date
When negotiating a moving date it is common in Switzerland, more so than any other European country, to have a transition period where you may own or are paying for two properties while final decisions are made. These include things like agreeing on what fixtures and fittings will be left as part of the sale and if any work is to be done to the property before you actually move in.

Step Five: Deal With Paperwork, Taxes and Deeds
When dealing with the paperwork, taxes and deeds, a public notary will represent both parties and you will need to visit the notary’s office to agree and sign contracts. This service is chargeable up to 5% of the purchase price of the property depending upon the canton and is usually split between the buyer and seller. You can seek your own legal adviser if you are not happy with anything the notary allocated to you has done.

Types of Property for Sale in Switzerland

Most people live in apartments in Switzerland and typically these are rented. The Swiss do not hold the same aspirations we do in the UK to always own their own home as this is often a very expensive option. However owning a property is achievable and you have a variety of choices open to you when it comes to buying a home in Switzerland.

In the middle of the city the most common type of accommodation is pre-built apartments, often in renovated historic buildings. On the outskirts of towns are new apartments blocks sometimes with the option for you to buy off plan if a development is brand new.

Apartments typically come in the following types: attic apartment, garden apartment, or a floor in-between in a low-rise apartment building. No residential accommodation in Switzerland is built higher than a few stories. The architecture in Switzerland can vary from up to the minute trendy buildings designed by modern architects to the more traditional charm of a typically European painted townhouse with shutters in contrasting colours.

Houses are less common than apartments with most of them having been bought by property developers, who have divided them up into flats to be leased out. You will find some detached villas in smaller towns, but in cities most single occupancy housing is either semi-detached or terraced. 

Out in the countryside or up in the mountains there is the traditional and iconic Swiss chalet. This beautiful accommodation that many of us associate with Switzerland is not typical everyday housing and is usually reserved for holiday lettings.

Obtaining a Mortgage in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the mortgage rate is the leading interest rate indicator in the country so there is a lot of competition between mortgage providers. It is best to get quotes from at least three different banks and insurance companies for mortgages offers. Non-Swiss nationals can obtain between 60-80 percent of the house price as a mortgage so having an adequate deposit or savings is vital.

When you buy a property then land transfer tax is payable at around 4 percent but this does differ in different cantons. The land where the house or apartment is situated is used as collateral in Swiss mortgages. This means the owner has a right to credit depending on the value of the land and the lender has a right to use the land if the borrower is unable to meet their mortgage payments.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or contact us now to discuss your move.

Moving to Switzerland - Switzerland's Excellent Standard of Healthcare

If you are moving to Switzerland, Hamiltons are experienced in domestic, commercial and corporate moves to all UK, European and international destinations. Our moving to Switzerland service is tailored to your requirements and can include full packing, unpacking, cleaning, storage and shipment of specialist items.

Moving to Switzerland -  click here to read more about our Switzerland removals service.

There are many reasons why people consider moving to Switzerland. One of the main reasons is the quality of life. Switzerland offers a high standard of living, low taxes, low levels of crime, good schools and an excellent healthcare system. Here we shall explain how the healthcare system works in Switzerland and the benefits of moving to Switzerland.

Please note all information is believed to be correct at the time of writing, but do please check with Hamiltons' European department prior to your move.

Healthcare in Switzerland: Health Insurance

Switzerland offers a high standard of healthcare. The country does not have a national health service, so residents are obliged to buy health insurance from private insurance companies who must accept every applicant.

Individuals are responsible for taking out their own healthcare policy and cannot rely on their employer to do this. Foreigners must take out compulsory health insurance within 12 weeks of arriving in the country and all babies must be insured within three months of birth. The only people who do not need to take out private health insurance are members of permanent missions and their families, and civil servants.

A number of public and private companies offer healthcare insurance but many people register with one of the state-run companies. The basic insurance package covers most of the cost of medical treatment and hospital care. However, as a supplement to this, some people also choose to take out a private complementary policy which provides extra cover for treatments such as private ward hospitalisation or dental work.

Healthcare in Switzerland: Pharmacies

Many people in Switzerland use a pharmacy first, before consulting a doctor. Pharmacists are highly qualified and communication should not be a problem as most speak English.

Pharmacies in Switzerland are marked with a green cross and generally even the most remote mountain villages have one. A wide range of over-the-counter medicines that you would expect to find in your local supermarket are sold here and can be bought without prescription. However, some doctors are happy to write a prescription for these medicines and the cost can sometimes be covered by your insurance.

Healthcare in Switzerland: Finding a Doctor

One of the first ports of call when you move to Switzerland is to choose a doctor. You can either find one by recommendation, via the internet or through the local yellow pages where doctors are listed in the Medicin General or Allgemeine Medizin categories. Another alternative is to contact your embassy who can supply a list of doctors that speak your language.

Whilst a lot of doctors in Switzerland have a good command of the English language, it is always advisable to learn at least a few basic words to assist with communication in an emergency. The region you are locating to will determine which language is most useful to you - as in different parts Italian, French and German are spoken. It is also a good idea to find out who you will need to call outside of general surgery opening hours.

Healthcare in Switzerland: Hospitals

Your basic insurance package will cover most of your hospital care in Switzerland. The system works as follows: you are required to pay an amount towards the cost of any hospital treatment you receive in Switzerland and the percentage you pay depends on the type of policy you have. So check this aspect thoroughly when choosing your Swiss healthcare insurance. On completion of treatment, once you are discharged, you receive a bill for payment (to be made within 30 days). This is then sent to the insurance company who will reimburse you for the percentage of treatment they cover.

If you require an ambulance to take you to hospital in Switzerland, the number for the emergency services is 144. This will put you through to an operator who will contact the police, fire or ambulance services. Depending on the type of accident, you can also phone for the local air ambulance service by dialing 141, or if you are using a foreign mobile phone, +41 333 333 333.

Healthcare in Switzerland: Dental Work

Dental care is provided by the private health clinics or the public health clinics. Dental care is very expensive in Switzerland and is not covered by the basic insurance package. You may want to take out additional insurance to cover this aspect of your health care.

Moving to Switzerland - click here to read more about our Switzerland removals service.