Learning the Cultural Etiquette of Switzerland

The relatively small European country of Switzerland is home to 7.7 million people. The majority of the local residents offer a warm welcome to foreign visitors. However, anybody visiting this beautiful country for the first time should be aware of the various cultural norms. It is important to follow the appropriate means of behaviour during Geneva airport transfers, business meetings and general exchanges with the local people. Here we offer a brief outline of some local niceties.

Greetings

It is absolutely essential that you learn the correct pronunciation of "grüezi", the Swiss word for hello. If you meet the driver of your Geneva airport transfers with this you will be very warmly received! You should also remember to say hello to people along the trail if you are exploring the scenic walking routes around the city, as this is considered polite.

Personal Relationships

The Swiss generally take a formal approach when meeting foreign guests for the first time. They are invariably polite and courteous yet certainly somewhat restrained. You probably shouldn't expect to strike up a friendship with a conservative local on your Geneva airport transfers. However, you'll find that it's relatively easy to meet fellow travellers and expatriates in this part of the world.

Freedom Of Movement

Travellers from the UK may be surprised by some elements of the Swiss culture and the expected levels of formality may cause surprise. Visitors may also be shocked by the Swiss system of queuing. The local people are quite prepared to jostle and elbow other customers out of their way in an attempt to ensure rapid service. However, many Swiss shop owners have opted to adopt the English system as a means of maintaining customer satisfaction.

Business Exchanges

The Swiss generally have a positive work ethic and a determination to ensure economic prosperity. They expect foreign visitors on business to be fully prepared for formal meetings and intense negotiations. It is generally quite difficult to impress the diligent and highly professional Swiss business people. However, visitors who stand the best chance of success will maintain high standards of punctuality and personal dignity. It is also important to dress smartly and treat Swiss business associates with respect at all times.

Dining In Geneva

There are plenty of high class dining establishments in the Swiss capital – your driver can point out some recommendations on your Geneva airport transfers. The local chefs serve up a mixture of authentic Swiss dishes and exotic culinary fare. Visitors who want to make the best impression should act in accordance with the local standards. It is deemed appropriate to keep your hands above the surface of the table while eating; potatoes and salads should be sliced with the fork rather than the knife; and meals should always be finished as a matter of courtesy.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for Geneva airport transfers, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.