Life in Switzerland
The practical, unhurried bits.
Guides for people who live here, are moving here, or are staying long enough to want a rhythm.
Transport · Updated 2025-09
Getting around Switzerland by train
The SBB app, the Halbtax, and why you almost never need a car.
Everyday · Updated 2025-08
Recycling, without the panic
PET, glass, aluminium, batteries — and why you'll see people carrying bottles across town.
Everyday · Updated 2025-07
Sundays are quiet on purpose
Why the shops are closed, why you don't mow the lawn, and what to do instead.
Moving · Updated 2025-10
Finding an apartment: a survival guide
Deposits, references, and why every viewing feels like a mild job interview.
Money · Updated 2025-11
Health insurance in plain language
Basic (Grundversicherung) is mandatory. Beyond that, it's a shopping decision.
Etiquette · Updated 2025-06
Tipping without overthinking it
Service is included. A round-up is generous. Nobody expects fifteen percent.
Nature · Updated 2025-09
Hiking safely on Swiss trails
Trail colours, weather habits, and the difference between wandern and bergwandern.
Transport · Updated 2025-11
Winter driving over Swiss passes
When passes close, what winter tyres actually mean, and the case for the train.
Moving · Updated 2025-10
Residence permits, in brief
L, B, C — what the letters mean and how long they take.
Etiquette · Updated 2025-07
Being a good Swiss neighbour
Building rules exist, they matter, and following them makes life easier.
Everyday · Updated 2025-05
The four languages, in one page
German, French, Italian, Romansh — where they live and how they touch.
Money · Updated 2025-09
Paying bills the Swiss way
QR-bills, TWINT and why nobody uses cheques.