What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Switzerland?
We asked people in Switzerland if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be aware of local customs when visiting Switzerland. Public displays of affection such as hugging and kissing are generally seen as inappropriate, particularly among strangers. It is also important to be punctual when making arrangements with Swiss people. Showing up late may be seen as unprofessional and disrespectful. Additionally, it is considered rude to wear shoes inside the home, so it is best to take them off when entering someone's home. With regard to tipping, Swiss culture does not heavily emphasize tipping and is considered an optional gesture," said another expat in Switzerland.
"hmmmm... Swiss sometimes do not understand German jokes. I laugh but the Swiss don't," wrote a member who made the move to Zurich, Switzerland.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Switzerland?
- How do I meet people in Switzerland?
- What is life like in Switzerland?
- Is there a lot of crime in Switzerland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Switzerland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Switzerland like?
- Is the cost of living in Switzerland high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Switzerland?
- What are healthcare services like in Switzerland?
- Is the cost of living in Switzerland high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Switzerland?
- What is the weather like in Switzerland?
- Are there good restaurants in Switzerland?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Switzerland?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Switzerland?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Switzerland?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Switzerland?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Switzerland?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Switzerland?
If you live in Switzerland, newcomers to Switzerland would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
