Articles by this author
Six big differences between Zurich and Geneva
Only 276 kilometres lie between Switzerland’s two largest cities, but distance is not the only thing that separates Switzerland's German and French-speaking hubs.
The Christmas movie that became Switzerland's most-watched film ever
From humble beginnings and a small production budget, "Drei Haselnüsse für Aschenbrödel" has become the seminal Christmas film across much of Europe - including Switzerland.
What documents do I need for renting an apartment in Switzerland?
Looking for a flat? You need to have your documents in order. Here’s what you need to know.
The ten most surprising questions on Switzerland's citizenship exam
Anyone wanting to become Swiss must take the Swiss citizenship exam. From hiking to landslides - and of course cheese - here are some of the more surprising questions prospective Swiss citizens are asked when they take the quiz.
What are the best commuter towns if you work in Zurich?
If you live in Zurich, you could be paying a whole lot of money for not very much at all. Here are some great options not so far from the city.
Should you leave tips at Swiss restaurants and if so, how much?
Whether you're visiting Switzerland or you've been living here for years, working out the tipping rules can be difficult. We asked our readers to give us the lowdown on tipping culture in Switzerland.
12 life-changing inventions you didn’t know were Swiss
OK, so we all know about clocks, cheese and chocolate, but Switzerland has made a range of other essential contributions to the world. Here are 12 of the best.
EXPLAINED: Everything you need to know about retiring in Switzerland
Whether you already live in Switzerland or dream of spending your golden years here, there is much to know about retiring in this country.
EXPLAINED: Everything you need to know about Swiss language tests for residency
The language standards for permanent residency is different than that for citizenship. Here's what you need to know.
Does marriage make financial sense in Switzerland?
Thinking of taking the plunge in Switzerland? Here are some important things to consider.
EXPLAINED: How to get a working holiday visa in Switzerland
Switzerland has its own ‘working holiday visa’ scheme for younger people, although there are some important differences you should know about. Here’s what you need to know.
Why do so many in Switzerland rent rather than buy a home?
Despite Switzerland’s wealth, it has the lowest percentage of home owners in Europe. Why?
EXPLAINED: Why not paying off your mortgage in Switzerland can save you money
The idea is strange to most of us, but the majority of people in Switzerland choose not to pay off their mortgage - and save money in the process.
The 14 mistakes to avoid making when you move to Switzerland
With 25 percent of the population foreign, Switzerland is clearly a major target destination for people from abroad. That said, there are some common errors and challenges to try to avid.
EXPLAINED: Why do the Swiss love to stare?
Staring is so common place in Switzerland, the phenomenon actually has a name. We get to the bottom of the 'Swiss stare'.
Top ten tips for finding an apartment to rent in Switzerland
The Local breaks down how to navigate the Swiss property rental market and find yourself a flat.
Bizarre Swiss Christmas traditions: Santa’s strange squad
These days, Santa Claus has a relatively ubiquitous appearance all over the world in any place that celebrates Christmas (and a few that don’t).
How to dispose of unwanted furniture or whitegoods in Zurich legally
Got an unwanted mattress, fridge or sofa? Here’s how you can legally get it off your hands in Zurich.
Verdict: How to save money in Bern
Want to feel the Bern on the cheap? Here’s how to save a franc or two in the Swiss capital.
What are Switzerland's new assisted suicide rules?
Swiss medical authorities have put in place new guidelines for the country's assisted suicide providers. Here's what you need to know.
UPDATE: What are Switzerland's rules for cannabis consumption?
Switzerland has a complicated set of rules for both medical and recreational cannabis consumption. Here's what you need to know.
Reader question: Is Barclays closing bank accounts of Swiss-based Brits?
UK nationals living across Europe have begun to receive letters from their bank telling them that their accounts will be closed, in an apparent post-Brexit change. Will the same apply in Switzerland?
Reader question: Do people really swim to work in Zurich?
Whether you live in Zurich or not, you may have heard stories of people swimming to work (at least in the summer months). Is it true - and how easy is it?