| Switzerland is
a land of incredible variety. Picturesque medieval villages
and scenic mountains abound. The numerous lakes and rivers
seem to have a special sparkle. The cities, while relatively
grand, blend charm and comfortable human-scale settings. The
rural scenes are perhaps the finest in the Western world.
History has given Switzerland little land, but nature has
blessed it with the most astonishing natural sights in Europe.
Undoubtedly one of the most attractive countries in the world
to live in, Switzerland offers individuals not only some of
the best living standards in the world, but also provides
an unsurpassed infrastructure for companies operating in the
greater European area.
It is also one of the safest countries
in the world. Swiss people are law-abiding to a fault, rendering
even the minimal police presence superfluous. A recent survey
also ranked the country among those with the lowest level
of corruption in the world.
Switzerland is Europe’s most mountainous country, with
a large number of ski resorts and villages in the mythic alpine
regions.
The country comprises 26 cantons.
Although it does not belong to the European Union (UE), it
is a full member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
Likewise, Switzerland does not belong to the European Monetary
System, yet it is a member of the International Monetary Fund
(IMF).
Switzerland is also a member of a number of international
economic organisations, including the United Nations (UN),
the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Organization for
Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Switzerland has borders with major EU countries, namely with
Austria, France, Germany, Italy as well as Liechtenstein.
Major Swiss cities include Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lucerne,
Lugano and Lausanne.
The diversity of the landlocked, mountainous country is the
essence of Switzerland and gives the country its unique identity.
In Switzerland, seasons are very distinct, with summers that
are hot without being scorching and winters that are cold
enough to go skiing, but without extreme temperatures.
Nature and leisure activities are among the most important
aspects of Swiss tourism. It goes without saying that Switzerland
is one of the best winter sports destinations in the world.
Ski resorts of all grades, facilities, atmospheres and costs
cover the country. The best-known, such as Zermatt, Crans-Montana,
Verbier, St Moritz and Davos need no introduction.
Swimming and water-sports have big followings at all the lakeside
resorts, and almost everywhere, water is clean. Boats and
equipment for windsurfing are available for rent on almost
all lakes. Rowing, canoeing, walking, skating and other healthy
pursuits are also popular.
|
Overview
