Swiss and Chips - Your British guide to Switzerland

E90 Why is Swiss German just so difficult?!

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Dialect struggles nobody talks about

Swiss German is a spoken language first and foremost, shaped by dialect and regional differences. From the absence of autocorrect to the liberal sprinkling of diminutives, communicating in Swiss German comes with some hard struggles that need talking about, gäll?

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:27 - Listener feedback

04:30 - Topic of the day: The unspoken Swiss German troubles

14:19 - Swiss bytes:

The DOGG on a ‘Füdlerutscher’

16:12 - Learning Swiss German:

Grüppelä

19:34 - Listener poll

...
Don’t forget to send us your feedback, questions or topic suggestions: Write us an email to hello@swissandchips.com, a text message or a voice message to play on the show +41 76 282 67 66.

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E89 Traditional Swiss toys: simple, sturdy, and full of charm

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Don’t forget to send us your feedback, questions or topic suggestions: Write us an email to hello@swissandchips.com, a text message or a voice message to play on the show +41 76 282 67 66.

Switzerland's handcrafted delights for children

In this episode we talk about some traditional Swiss toys that are not only fun to play with, but have also withstood the scrutiny of different generations of children and even make great souvenirs.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:22 - Listener messages

08:24 - Traditional Swiss toys:

15:36 - Swiss bytes:

Find people with the same name in Switzerland

19:01 - Learning Swiss German:

Chrüsimüsi

21:24 - Listener poll

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E88 Come on in! The Swiss house tour tradition

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0100

The unspoken rule of giving a tour of your home when guests come over

When guests visit where you live in Switzerland, the host almost always offers them a look around. In this episode, we talk about this unspoken rule in Switzerland and why it led to some confusion in our home.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:22 - Listener messages

08:24 - What to do if you have visitors over for the first time

Guest slippers

15:36 - Swiss bytes:

19:01 - Learning Swiss German:

äs het solangs het
der schnäller isch der gschwinder

21:24 - Listener poll

Our episode where we talk about Aromat: Six things you’ll find in a Swiss kitchen (and what’s missing!)

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E87 Nebelmeer: The fog that drives the Swiss to the mountains

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Switzerland's weekend mountain ritual

Why do the Swiss regularly abandon foggy cities for the mountains? That’s the question we get into in this episode. Beyond this beloved autumn and winter weekend pastime, we take a look at your messages, our latest poll results, Swiss bytes, and we even pack in a fresh “Learning Swiss German” segment.

We’d love to hear from you!
Send your feedback, questions, or voice messages to hello@swissandchips.com.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:34 - Listener messages

How to find a job in Switzerland as an expat
Find us on Instagram (Swiss and Chips, Jo, Simon) or Bluesky Jo and Simon

07:54 - Why do Swiss locals go to the mountains when the weather is gray

Apfelfunk (a Swiss and German podcast about Apple)

13:15 - Listener poll: For how long would you travel to see the sun?

15:32 - Swiss bytes:

Swiss Podcast Network
Swiss Podcasts in English from Swissinfo

17:20 - Learning Swiss German: “Rumpelsurig”

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E86 - Can you ever truly feel accepted as an expat in Switzerland?

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0200

What acceptance looks like amongst the Swiss

Moving to Switzerland as an expat is definitely challenging and it can feel hard to be accepted. But what does being accepted really mean anyway? In this very personal episode, Jo talks about what fitting in means to her and we discuss integration from a very Swiss perspective, including their ongoing interest in expats.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:32 - Listener Feedback

The Ministry for the Future

09:01 - Do you feel accepted as an expat in Switzerland?

19:13 - Swiss bytes: Expat Series

Part 1 (the recruiting)
Part 2 (two portraits)
Part 3 (finding a place to stay)
Part 4 (the integration)

20:40 - Learning Swiss German: Glüschtelä

24:43 - Listener poll: Which is your favourite season of the year

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E85 - If you could change one thing about Switzerland...

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

In this episode of Swiss and Chips - Your British Guide to Switzerland, it's all about our listeners’ voices. We asked what annoys you about Switzerland or what you would change, and you replied!

From the pain of exchange rates to supermarket stress (again), Mexican food and laundry room drama (again). Also, don’t forget to vote in our listener poll.

Feedback, questions or topic suggestions? Drop us a line to hello@swissandchips.com!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:29 - Listener Feedback

Muottas Muragl funicular

05:32 - The one thing to change in Switzerland

11:35 - Swiss bytes: Do you feel accepted as a non-EU immigrant?

13:46 - Learning Swiss German: Gutsch

18:07 - Listener poll: Do you feel accepted as an immigrant in Switzerland?

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E84 The Hidden 100-Year Swiss Tradition You've Never Heard Of

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

There is no listener poll this week, but a listener survey: What's the one thing you would change about Switzerland if you could?

Send us an audio message or text to +41 76 282 67 66 or email hello@swissandchips.com.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

01:08 - Listener Feedback

Niesenbahn, the longest stairs in the world
Marzili-Bahn, the shortest one in Switzerland

08:32 - 1st August badge 2025

1.-August-Abzeichen 2025
Swiss bytes: Send us your suggestion to hello@swissandchips.com

15:49 - Learning Swiss German: Tönder (or Thunder)

19:38 - Listener survey: Send us the one thing you would change about Switzerland as an audio message or text to +41 76 282 67 66 or email hello@swissandchips.com.

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E83 Navigating Switzerland's Unspoken Rules: A New Series

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

There is no listener poll this week, but a listener survey: What's the one thing you would change about Switzerland if you could?

Send us an audio message or text to +41 76 282 67 66 or email hello@swissandchips.com.

Notes on this episode

00:00 - Intro

01:09 - Listener Feedback

09:40 - Coming to a restaurant, be ready to order

16:20 - Swiss bytes: As an expat, if you could change only one thing about Switzerland (Reddit)

21:37 - Learning Swiss German: Gaffi Crème (or Thé Crème)

25:27 - Listener survey: Send us the one thing you would change about Switzerland as an audio or text message to +41 76 282 67 66 or to hello@swissandchips.com

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E82 - To lüft or not to lüft?

Thu, 22 May 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Let the sunshine (and fresh air) in!

In this episode we talk about the Swiss ritual that plays out daily in homes, offices, and schools across the country: Lüften. It’s the practice of throwing windows open wide and letting fresh air circulate through rooms and buildings. But why is Lüften so important to the Swiss mindset? As always, we’ll give you some insights, but mostly personal experiences of living with the fresh air in Switzerland.

00:00 - Intro

01:50 - Listener Feedback

07:08 - To lüft or not to lüft

"Korrektes Lüften" BAG
Differences between summer and winter
Swiss lüfting "rules"

15:26 - Swiss bytes

Federal Statistical Office

17:36 - Learning Swiss German: Dürzug

20:22 - Listener poll

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The surprising reality of day-to-day life in Switzerland

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Not everything is as glossy as it seems

Many thanks to all the listeners who reach out to us! Today’s episode is for you. If you have questions or thoughts you want to share with us and the other listeners, let us know!

In this episode, we talk specifically about Jonathan’s feedback and his experiences of visiting Switzerland. It inspired us to talk about some other surprises and controversial aspects of ordinary life in Switzerland.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Introduction to this episode

00:58 - Listener feedback

02:12 - Swiss Controversies

14:55 - Swiss Bytes: Ali on Switzerland

17:25 - Learning Swiss German: “Bodäsuri”

20:00 - Listener poll

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Walking Across Borders: Switzerland to France on Foot

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0100

A journey to Fahy and the history of Tête de Moine cheese.

In today’s episode of Swiss and Chips, we’re taking you on a journey across the Swiss-French border on foot! Join us as we explore the charming town of Fahy, visit the House of the Tête de Moine cheese, and dive into the history behind this delicious Swiss cheese. We’ll also share our experience of crossing the border and why many people shop across it. Tune in for an adventure filled with cheese, culture, and travel insights!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

00:41 - Listener Feedback

05:35 - Walking to France

13:49 - Learning Swiss German: Vögeliwohl

14:55 - Listener poll

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Skiing in Switzerland: going beyond the bunny slopes

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Tips, passes, and resort advice for newbies on the pistes

In today’s episode of Swiss and Chips, we’re talking about how to enjoy a ski day when you’re ready to move beyond your first slope but you’re not ready to hit a “red” yet. We discuss some basics, like choosing the right ski pass or picking a resort, and skiing etiquette. But mainly Jo shares her personal experience.

00:00 - Introduction to this episode

01:26 - Listener feedback

03:08 - Swiss Bytes: Alertswiss

05:04 - Skiing in Switzerland: going beyond the bunny slopes

Different passes and costs
Renting vs. buying ski equipment
Beginner-friendly resorts? Family-friendly? Big or small regions?
Ski etiquette

19:49 - Learning Swiss German: “Spitzcheeri”

22:23 - Listener poll

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Only in Switzerland: The curse of the washing room in apartment buildings

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0100

It’s been a while, but we’re back - and we’re diving straight into a topic that’s Swiss and surprisingly sensitive: the (unspoken) rules of the shared washing room. We’ll share some personal stories of washing room drama and tell you what you need to know when searching for a new flat.

00:00 - Intro

02:42 - Swiss Bytes

06:27 - The curse of the washing room in apartment buildings

18:47 - Learning Swiss German: Töggelä

20:46 - Listener poll

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How to be polite in Switzerland

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0100

“Especially in times of the pluralisation of lifestyles, there is a need to know how things should be done correctly. Because manners provide security in how to shape interactions positively. They simplify interactions and prevent misunderstandings.” This is a quote from the ‘Swiss Knigge’, a book about good manners and behaviour in Switzerland.

Though often associated with formal manners, Knigge in Switzerland has evolved to cover modern-day needs, while retaining its core values of explaining respect and politeness.

In this episode, we give you an overview of the book’s chapters, talk about how it can be useful for expats in Switzerland and go through a few of the guide’s most interesting bits.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

00:00 - Intro

02:00 - Listener Feedback

03:08 - Swiss Bytes: Swiss SBB clock turns 80

05:23 - The Swiss Knigge as a book and ebook

29:58 - Listener give-away: Send us your message!

32:20 - Learning Swiss German: äs herbschtelet

33:03 - Listener poll

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Learning Swiss German with 'ABC SRF 3' - Discover Swiss Traditions

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Let's dive into another episode about Swiss German through the lens of the traditional Swiss radio game ‘ABC SRF 3’. We' haven’t laughed so much in an episode yet; we’ll let you decide if that’s a good thing.

And we introduce two new segments. First, we address user questions and feedback, featuring Cathy, who proudly participates in Swiss traditions. Second, get ready for the brand new "Swiss Bites" (with a must-hear sound effect) and our listener poll.

00:00 - Intro

01:53 - Listener Feedback

04:06 - Swiss Bytes

06:22 - Learning Swiss German

Swiss German episodes on Swiss and Chips
Official page of ABCSRF3 with links to the game
“Scherenschnitt” or traditional paper cutting

19:34 - Listener poll: Vote here!

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Let‘s talk about Swiss National Day

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Swiss National Day is coming up! Let’s talk about what happens on the big day and what it means to the Swiss. We’ll help you figure out how to mark the occasion even if you haven’t been in Switzerland for long. We also have some new features in our podcast for you: “Swiss bytes”, listener feedback and our survey.

00:00 - Intro

01:58 - Listener Feedback

03:14 - Swiss Bytes
US Marine reacts to Why the Swiss love their Guns (more than Americans)
Another interesting Video about Why Switzerland has 370 000 bunkers
Da chönt ja jedä cho

07:09 - Learning Swiss German
Da chönt ja jedä cho

10:32 - 1st August: What to buy and what to do

16:05 - Listener Survey
Fun with Flags

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How to survive Swiss queuing culture

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0100

How do you cope with the chaos, confusion, and frequent frustration of queuing in Switzerland? In this episode, we explore Swiss queuing culture and share our experiences and advice on how to survive and possibly thrive in the chaotic queuing land of the Alps. We have some horror stories to share that you might be able to identify with. Whether you’re a newcomer, a visitor, or a long-time resident, we hope this episode will help you to navigate Swiss queueing protocol, or at the very least, give you a laugh.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Suzi LeVine complaining about queuing in Adelboden.
A discussion on Reddit about Swiss queuing culture and even if it exists at all.

Learning Swiss German

Hundsverlochete

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Decoding Swiss German Nicknames

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 14:35:00 +0100

Switzerland, a country known for its linguistic diversity, is home to the unique dialect of Swiss German. It has many variations around the country, with words, sounds and phrases changing by city or valley. Here, we dive into a very specific topic of Swiss German - the use of nicknames.

In this episode of ‘Decoding Swiss German Nicknames’, we aim to unravel the meanings, origins, and usage of nicknames. Let’s decode together!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

User feedback
Swiss dialects / Swiss nicknames

Learning Swiss German

The Instagram video.

Grübschi: Apple or pear core
Mürggel: The end bit of a loaf of bread
Rittigampfi: A swing
Fööf: Five
Küdder: Rubbish or bin
Gluggsi: Hiccup
Gagel: Poo

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What noise does an animal make in Swiss German?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Discovering animal sounds in Swiss German: A fun exploration at the Dählhölzli Petting Zoo

Come with us on a stroll through the famous Dählhölzli petting zoo in Bern where we talk about the different animal noises in English and Swiss German.

A special welcome and thanks to all our super early subscribers: Samir, Julian, Nuclei, Alicia, Nicholas, Joee and many more - we really appreciate the early support!

And Krissy! She was the first to comment in the subscriber chat about what advice she’d give anyone planning to move to Switzerland.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Why ducks say "quack-quack" in English but "ga-ga" in Japanese. By Quick and dirty tipps
Bee, bird, cockerel, owl, horse, frog, sheep, cuckoo, dog
John’s explanation of what a Bünzli is

Learning Swiss German

Liiri, Liiri-Bänz, Gritti-Bänz

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5 things you need to know before going to a Swiss cinema

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0100

The experience of going to see a film in Switzerland has some quirks. The first question you’re probably going to ask yourself when trying to catch a new release is what language it’s going to be shown in and secondly, how much the pleasure is going to set you back.

In this episode, we talk about which kind of cinema typically shows films in which languages, how dubbing or subtitles come into play, the financial consequences of a cinema trip in Switzerland and where to find out what’s on.

We also explain why we moved the Swiss and Chips community to Substack, a place where we want to hear from you and get to know you better.

All our content and community chat on Substack is free.

On Substack, you can directly subscribe to the episodes and additional content via email, be part of the subscriber chat, give direct feedback on the episode articles and have your say in polls.

This is what happens if you get in touch with us

We read all comments, emails and chat replies carefully, as we really want to hear from you. Often these conversations make our day and are why we’re doing what we’re doing.
Other community members can join the discussion, give advice or get help.
All of this will directly influence the show and upcoming topics.

At this point, many thanks to our first new subscribers on Substack 🥳 and a special welcome to Amritam, Jane and Krissy 👋

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Why we moved from Facebook to Substack
An app to look up films playing at the cinema: Cineman

Learning Swiss German

Swiss words we explain in this episode: “Schärmä”, not to be confused with “Schirm” (umbrella) or being “andercover”. And as a bonus, a more cinema-related word: “Küder”.

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Unboxing the Swiss ballot papers

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

After 13 years of living in Switzerland, Jo is finally allowed to have her say in her new home country and participate in the democratic process. The Swiss elections are coming up and after becoming Swiss, this might be the second most exciting day for a new citizen. The papers have arrived (a long time ago) and are ready to be explored. Let's do the unboxing together and talk about the specialities of the Swiss elections.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

What's it like to get the the election material for the first time?
What's inside the envelope?
How do you vote?
Smartvote

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We taste traditional Swiss food and drink so you don't have to: Rivella

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0100

The Swiss can't get enough of it: Rivella is the Alpine nation's traditional soft drink of choice. But there's an unusual ingredient hiding beneath the bubbles of this thirst-quenching liquid. Any idea what it is?

In this episode, we'll introduce you to the delights of Switzerland's weird and wonderful fizzy refreshment, and Simon takes a blind Rivella taste test to find out how Swiss he is after all.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Facts and figures
Different colours of Rivella bottles and their meaning
The drink experiment!

Learning Swiss German

How to properly order a Rivella in Switzerland.

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From Bern to Colmar: Swiss and Chips over the border

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0100

If you're looking for Christmas magic, put Colmar, France on your list of must-see places. A beautiful city at any time of year, it is decorated and lit up to perfection every Christmas.

The city's cobbled streets are flanked by Medieval or Renaissance-period buildings and small canals run alongside the main thoroughfares. There are six different markets to see, each with a different focus such as artisan crafts, food or even an area aimed at children. On top of all that, the city's park has an ice rink and even a merry-go-round that has been adapted into a highly festive rotating drinkery.

Although Switzerland has an abundance of lovely Christmas markets, a trip to Colmar is something special: we'll tell you why in this latest episode!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

We talk about user feedback. Send yours here.
Colmar and its Christmas markets

Learning Swiss German

The word in this episode was "biräweich".

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The must-know websites for Switzerland

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0100

It can take time to figure out what the useful websites are when you move to a new country. What are the most-popular car-sharing, price comparison, weather and buy-and-sell sites in Switzerland? We crowdsourced a list of the must-know websites in Switzerland from our Facebook group, Switzerland for English Speakers. In this episode we explain why they're useful and what we personally think of them.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Send your audio file to our inbox or directly to 0041 76 282 67 66
Vote results from our last episode
Full list of useful websites from our group on Facebook
Galaxus and Gonser
tutti, anibis
Comparis
Toppreise
deepl
Meteo Suisse
Mobility
Peakfinder
Alertswiss
How to find an apartment in Switzerland as an expat - a previous episode

Learning Swiss German

The word in this episode was "Sidäfin".

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Six things you'll find in a Swiss kitchen (and what's missing!)

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0100

Warning: this episode is a rollercoaster! We try to navigate our way through a traditional Swiss kitchen, and explain the classic items you'll find in any Swiss kitchen cupboard. From flavourings to implements, we lift the table cloth on the secrets of Switzerland's home dining habits - and we reveal a few foody preferences of our own along the way. Plus: what's missing in a standard Swiss kitchen? We name three items that we can't live without, but which have proven to be somewhat of a novelty to your average Swiss.

Interested in connecting with us and other listeners?

Want to chat about the show, talk about life in Switzerland or even meet up? We want to know how! Please vote and we'll try and make it happen. If anything is missing, you can add it in the comments at the bottom of this page.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Vote results from our last episode
Thanks to 'AGBinCH' for the helpful comment
What you'll find in a Swiss kitchen
Aromat and Kressi
After Eights in Switzerland, here, here and here
What's missing in Swiss kitchens

Learning Swiss German

Chnuuschti - if you have a better explanation, let us know in the comments.

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Voting in Switzerland

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0200

After Jo got her Swiss passport it was time to step up and get her first real taste of Swiss democracy… and what better way to do it than going to vote in the regular Swiss polls in person.

In this episode, we talk about how to vote in person or by post, and how to navigate political discussions with the Swiss.

The Swiss and Chips vote

Come and vote, we want to hear from you!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

First time voting in Switzerland!
When can you vote after becoming Swiss?
When can you go and vote and how often?
Where can you vote?
How does it work?

Learning Swiss German

Our word in this episode: 'Gfröörli'.

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Driving to the UK from Switzerland

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0200

The traditional ways to travel between the UK and Switzerland are plane, train and car. 2022 turned out to be the year we used the channel tunnel to make the trip for the first time. We drove from Bern to England and then back a few weeks later. It was an experience to remember! And one that’s worth talking about and sharing with you.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Why did we end up driving by car? What is the advantage?
Which route did we take, how long is the journey and how are the stops on the way?
Which route to take, how long is the journey and how are the stops on the way?
Recommendations in our Facebook Group.
The Channel Tunnel video on YouTube.

Learning Swiss German

Our word(s) in this episode: 'Plapperä' and 'Plapperi'.

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Becoming Swiss, part seven: 'Crossing the Finish Line'

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0200

It took around two years, but the moment has finally come. Ten months after the final interview a confirmation letter arrived in the post: Jo is Swiss! Now that's worth talking about.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

What happened so far: Check out our other episodes on 'How to become Swiss'. What happened since the interview What changes after becoming Swiss What's next?

Learning Swiss German

Our word in this episode is: 'Gschtabi'.

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A 'BEA' Special: the must-see traditional Swiss agricultural fair

Mon, 02 May 2022 07:00:23 +0200

The BEA is open! This annual traditional Swiss fair is a must-see for anyone living in or around Bern and it's open until May 8 this year. From donkey displays to fairground rides and the chance to sample local beers and a staggering range of cheese, there is so much to see for children and adults.

We recorded while out on a day trip in Switzerland, so there's not one, but two recommendations of places to visit in this episode. One of them is an insider tip about a slightly hidden place.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

The BEA website with prices, opening hours and tickets
The map to find your way around the event
A hidden place for you to check out in Switzerland: Schwarzsee (Black Lake): find two on our website.

Learning Swiss German

Our word in this episode is: 'Zuckerwatte'.

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E61 St. Moritz in winter

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0200

Snow, a frozen lake and beautiful mountains: there aren't many more things you need to complete the perfect Swiss winter destination. When we headed to St. Moritz in January 2022 we had high expectations for this famous ski resort with a glitzy reputation. And it absolutely lived up to them! With breathtaking winter scenery and vintage Winter Olympics sights, there is lots to do here even if you're not skiing.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Reasons to go (there's more to see than the ski slopes!)
How to get there
Where to stay
What to do while you're there

Learning Swiss German

This episode's word is: Iischzapfä. Hint: you'll see a lot of these in Switzerland in the winter!

Don't forget to visit our website for photos.

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Relocating to Switzerland: Part 2

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 07:00:02 +0100

What is it really like to move to Switzerland? In the second of two episodes looking back at when Jo first relocated from the UK, we delve into some of the unexpected sides to setting up a new life among the Swiss. In this episode we cover:

Differences in lifestyle between England and Switzerland
The surprises that come with renting a flat
Working in Switzerland and finding a job

Previous episodes we refer to in the show:

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Relocating to Switzerland: A personal perspective

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Jo moved to Switzerland just over a decade ago, so it seemed to be about time to talk about her experience, the highlights, and what she would do differently if she would do it all over again.

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How to organise a Swiss (and British) passport for your newborn

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 07:00:07 +0100

If you have a British-Swiss child and live in Switzerland, like we do, how do you go about getting their first passports? In this episode we'll explain everything from organising all of the documents to taking a suitable picture of your little one.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Organising the Swiss passport: where to get it, what you need and how to take a picture.
The British passport: The long list of documents, how to organise them and roughly how long it takes. Start with the online form.

Learning Swiss German

This week's word is: 'Schoggijob'

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Becoming Swiss, part six: 'the interview'

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0100

It's the big moment in the Swiss citizenship process: finally you will meet someone face-to-face who will decide whether all the paperwork you have collected, all the forms you have filled out and all the studying you have done is enough to make you a viable candidate for becoming Swiss.

My moment finally came when I was invited to the office that handles citizenship applications in Bern. I've read so many reports in the media about the difficult questions posed at these interviews and heard numerous horror stories about people being grilled on matters of Swiss society and history, or being asked highly personal questions. What actually happened was something quite different.

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Trip tip: An easy walk through the vineyards

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Vines, food and splendid views: if you're looking for a short and easy walk to do by yourself or when you have visitors in town, this is an episode for you! We talk about a scenic, circular walk in canton Bern that will take you from the village of Twann to Ligerz, via the vineyards and back along the lakeside to Twann.
To get to Twann, you can go by train or park your car at the train station.

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Becoming Swiss, part five: ‘One form to rule them all’

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Once you have fulfilled all of the criteria to apply to become Swiss (take a look at our previous episodes in this mini-series if want to know more about this), you will be faced with filling out "the form". This is where you provide all of your personal details including your entire education history and certificates, Swiss employment history, references and more. In this episode, I explain exactly which documents I had to gather as part of the more than 50 pages I had to put together.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

How long is the form?
Where do you get the form from?
What kind of information do you need to fill in?
Who can be a reference?
Do you need to order extra documents or certificates?
What else is important to remember when filling out the form?
How long does it take and when can you start?
What happens when you have finished the form?

Learning Swiss German

This episode's word is: Häbel. We explain what it means, its other forms and when to use it.

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What to expect at a Swiss apéro

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Before or instead of a dinner, at a garden party, a wedding, an office function or even a funeral, it‘s always the right time and place to join or organise a classic Swiss apéro. But what is expected at this typically Swiss get-together? We talk you through the food and drinks, the preparation, and, as always, the subtleties of navigating a Swiss event.

What is a Swiss apero?

The classic Swiss apéro involves nibbles and drinks and is suitable for any occasion.

The food usually consists of cold meats and cheese, crackers and/or (Zweifel) crisps. It can be a little fancier with small pizzas, mini croissants, or anything you find in the kitchen to serve and eat by hand or from small plates.

For drinks, you‘ll find white wine and mineral water and most of the time, orange juice. But also here - from tea to beer - nothing is a must, most things go.

That‘s it food- and drink-wise, but it can also be much more elaborate of course.

The occasion can be anything. It can be a big celebration, for a wedding for example, but it can also be without any major occasion at all if friends walk by and you invite them to your home for an apéro if the time feels right.

What do you do at a Swiss apéro?

You meet, greet and chat. It's a great opportunity to get to know people better and talk to them. And that's it!

All the in-betweens, what you can expect, what the atmosphere's like, and the do‘s and don‘ts are all discussed in this episode of the Swiss

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Having a baby in Switzerland

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0200

There have been a few long breaks between our last podcast episodes, but we had a good reason: we have a new person in our family! Please welcome Maeve, our beautiful baby girl, who you may now hear in the background of some of our recordings.

She was born in early 2021 and our lives became a whirlwind of excitement. Now that the chaos has calmed down we wanted to give you an update and share Jo's thoughts on how pregnancy and having a baby in Switzerland is different to the UK.

Learning Swiss German

We've also introduced a new regular slot in our show to help you learn Swiss German! In every episode we'll talk about one typical Swiss tradition, event, word or saying you need to know.

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Weirdest thing you saw when you moved to Switzerland

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Setting foot into another country can mean a significant change of your lifestyle and sometimes a culture shock. We asked in our Facebook group about your weirdest thing you’ve experienced when you moved to Switzerland and got loads of fun and interesting comments as well aas interesting discussions started. Thanks a lot for that!

In this episode we talk about a few of them and Jo will tell you about her personal story when she moved to Switzerland.

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How to celebrate Christmas as an expat in Switzerland

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Christmas is drawing nearer but thanks to coronavirus, making plans to celebrate it this year isn't very easy. It's difficult enough to get together with family if you live in the same country, but almost impossible if you don't. We like to look on the bright side though! This year could be a chance to find new ways of celebrating Christmas and maybe start some new Swiss traditions at home.

In this episode we talk about the parts of a Swiss Christmas that are perfect for our socially-distanced, outdoor times and how you can mix these with your usual festivities to make some wonderful winter days.

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Becoming Swiss, part four: The Swiss citizenship test

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0100

We're still here and still making podcasts: not as often as we'd like, but there's a good reason for that, which we'll explain in this week's episode. But the main topic in this episode is the Swiss citizenship test.

Did you know we have a Facebook group? Switzerland for English Speakers is a great place to ask questions and share experiences. Take a look!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Why is an exam part of becoming Swiss?
How do you prepare for the test?
What's it like to take the test: atmosphere on the day, set up in the room, what kind of questions will you face?
Book recommendation: 'Der kleine Schweizermacher'.

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Becoming Swiss, part three: 'Starting the Application Process'

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 07:00:00 +0200

After living in Switzerland for ten years, I can now formally apply to become a Swiss citizen! There are a number of conditions I had to make sure I met before applying, which we mention in this episode of the podcast. We'll talk you through how to start the process in Bern specifically, as there are differences depending on where you live and exactly which type of naturalisation you are applying for.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Contacting the naturalisation office: which questions to expect in the first phone call
Current differences due to coronavirus
The first appointment at the naturalisation office: what to take with you and what happens during the appointment
What happens next?

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What are we missing when trying to make Swiss friends?

Tue, 19 May 2020 07:00:00 +0200

Finding it difficult to make friends with the Swiss is a common complaint from expats in Switzerland. Do the Swiss really have such different ideas about friendship? What does it take to be able to read between the lines in a conversation with a Swiss person and are there any tips that can help you feel less isolated here? We share our insights on this contentious topic and give you an update on Jo's application to become Swiss.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

How to make friends in Switzerland

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Walk with us along Bern's Aare river

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 07:00:00 +0200

If you can only get out outside at the moment to go shopping or for some fresh air, you might be starting to get a little bored of your local surroundings. Pop your earphones in and come with us as we head out for a walk along the Aare river in Bern.

Where did we go on our walk?

'Dählhölzli' section of the Bern animal park, including the children's zoo
Elfenau park, including Bern city's greenhouses and the rare species garden

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Five ways to perfect your Swiss knowledge while staying at home

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 07:00:00 +0100

The coronavirus might have stopped you from getting out and exploring Switzerland, but you can still learn plenty about Swiss culture from inside your own home. Here's our list of five things every person interested in getting closer to the Swiss or looking to become Swiss should know. We chose a film, a book, a musician, a recipe and a game that you can look up and enjoy to see you through your weeks staying at home in Switzerland.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips, your British Guide to Switzerland

The most popular Swiss film of all time: 'Die Schweizermacher' (The Swissmakers). We rented it on iTunes in Swiss German with English subtitles.
A very well-known Swiss children's book: 'Schellen Ursli' (A Bell for Ursli)
One of Switzerland's most famous recording artists, DJ BoBo. You might know him for this song.
Tuck into a buttery 'Zopf' (a plaited, golden loaf of bread). Find a recipe and plenty of instructions here.
Looking for 'Hobelkäse'? It's a hard Swiss cheese made in the mountains, which is served after being planed into thin slices or rolls.
The Swiss card game 'Jass'.
Monday-Saturday mornings at 07:50 on Swiss Public Radio SRF 3, practise your Swiss German by playing along with the game 'ABC SRF 3'. You can also buy the card game to play at home.

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When to shake hands in Switzerland

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Shaking hands in Switzerland is common: children learn it at school and it seems to be a regular feature of everyday life. But when is holding out your hand too much and when would it be a faux pas not to? What are the alternatives when you can't shake hands, for example during the Coronavirus outbreak? We'll run you through the hand-shaking dos and don'ts of Swiss culture!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: your British Guide to Switzerland

What to do if you don’t know whether to shake hands or not?
Hand shake or kiss on the cheek?
When shaking hands is a must
An optional hand-shaking moment
When to avoid shaking hands
'Der Schweizer Knigge', a well-known guide to Swiss etiquette (book in German)

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Should you join an English-speaking club in Switzerland?

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Joining a club in Switzerland is a simple way to make new friends and connections. There are several English-speaking clubs in Bern and other Swiss cities, like the British Residents' Association of Switzerland, which we visited in October 2019. Should you sign yourself up to a club? Listen and find out!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

The British Residents' Association of Switzerland

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Unspoken Swiss rules

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 07:00:00 +0100

It can feel like there are a lot of rules governing life in Switzerland. They‘re often written on signs in public places or in the building where you live or work. But what about those unspoken rules? The ones you don‘t know exist until a realisation slowly dawns on you that you‘ve been doing something differently to everyone else, and never known.
Notes on this episode about unspoken Swiss rules

How important are unspoken Swiss rules
Where, when and how to greet people
How to toast and other rules with alcohol
Quiet times

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How to hike to the top of a Swiss mountain

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Hiking in Switzerland is a favourite national pastime, especially in autumn, which means there are plenty of maps, online resources, and books to help you find the perfect hike! To get you into the mood, we'll tell you what you have to watch out for and give you all sorts of other tips, including a short excursion we made recently up a mountain and tell you what secrets are waiting for you at the top.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips, Your British Guide to Switzerland: How to prepare for a mountain trail

What is the difference between: Hiking trail, mountain trail, alpine trail.
Myswitzerland map
Admin map
Wanderland map
Weather
What do the different signs mean?
Our trip to the Bunderspitz

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This is what it sounds like in Switzerland's capital city, Bern

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Come on a walk through one of Bern's picturesque neighbourhoods, Kirchenfeld, and listen in to what the Swiss capital sounds like on an ordinary day. Starting off at the Tierpark (animal park), walking through Helvetiaplatz with many of the country's important museums, I'll talk you through what you will see and hear as you head up into the city centre, walking over a beautiful bridge and ending at one of the city's main attractions, the Zytglogge.

Take in the sounds of Bern wherever you are in the world.

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Swiss German sayings: what they mean (and how to say them!)

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 07:00:00 +0200

"There's enough hay down there now" to "even his chopping block will calve": these are just a few everyday sayings that make perfect sense in Swiss German, but don't exactly translate into English. Whether you've heard some of them already, or just want to impress with a sentence or two at the right moment, this is our pick of some useful sayings in Swiss German.

In this episode, we try to explain their meaning and talk about when you can use them.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Göschenä - Airolo

Chasch nät z Füfi uz Weggli ha

Das macht der Braatä onät fiis.

Däm Chalberet no dr Schittschtock

Winä kertä Hentschä

Äs het solangs het

Äs git nüt wos nät git

Uf altä Pfanä leertmä chochä

Dr schnäller isch dr Gschwinder

Äs isch gnueg Heu nitna

Dr gschider git naa u der Esel blibt schtaa

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The Swiss and Chips guide to dating in Switzerland

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Is dating in Switzerland any different to anywhere else in the world? The Swiss have a reputation for being difficult to get know, so in this episode, we talk about expectations, stereotypes and traditions when it comes to attempting to get romantically involved with a Swiss.

How to date in Switzerland: Show notes

How to make friends in Switzerland.
Where to look?
How to ask?
What to do on a first date?
Special things to think about?

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Get a holiday vibe without leaving Switzerland

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 07:00:00 +0200

With the temperatures heating up again this week, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Switzerland and get to know a few places where you can create the feeling of going on holiday without straying too far from home. We explored some of the locations the Swiss head to when they need a 'staycation'.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

What's German for 'staycation'? Get ready to drop this phrase into Swiss conversation
What’s summer like in Switzerland?
- Weather: hot and sunny, occasional storms. Normal range in July and August is 18-28 degrees Celsius, 30 plus is the sign of a hot summer
- Activities: Barbecuing - public grill spots, hiking, swimming in lakes and rivers
- Cities come alive: cafes and tables outside, festivals happening- Too hot: go up high in the mountains
Summer day trips
- Erlach: 40km from Bern, it's a 50-minute drive or 35-minute train ride. Small pretty village on the edge of Lake Biel. Has a campsite and a spot to rent stand up paddle boards.
- Estavayer le Lac: a medieval town with a castle on the shore of Lake Neuchâtel. Has a great water sport facility - a water-ski lift! You can also camp here and rent pedalos.

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Hit the road: driving in Switzerland

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Do you need a car in Switzerland? And what other options are there apart from buying one? We asked what you wanted to hear about in this episode of our podcast, and driving in Switzerland was one topic you suggested in our Facebook group, Switzerland for English speakers. We talk about why you might decide to get a car, and how leasing, hiring and car sharing works.

Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland

Owning a car
- Great public transport, do you really need a car?
- Regular trips to the countryside, lots to take with you, or a particular commute might be some reasons why you decide you need a car
- Leasing a vehicle: very common in Switzerland: this is how it works

A car just for when you need it
- Renting: all the big name companies are in here in Switzerland too: Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis. They’re in towns and at airports, it’s just like a renting a car in any other country
- Car-sharing schemes: the biggest is Mobility. There are different types of memberships, it doesn’t cost too much and is very easy to use. There are different payment options including membership, annual fees and pay as you go. The cars belong to the company.
- Sharoo: you can borrow cars that other people own. They set out their prices: how much you pay depends on time and distance travelled.

Driving licence
- Don’t forget if you live here you’ll need to swap your licence for a Swiss one within the first year.
- If you can’t drive yet, in 9 cantons in Switzerland you can even take the basic theory test in English. There are driving instructors who speak English, just have a look for them in your area.

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Your questions about Switzerland: answered!

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 07:00:00 +0200

There’s been lots of questions in our facebook group, Switzerland for English speakers, over the past couple of weeks, so we wanted to talk about a few of them. Moving to Switzerland can be quite a confusing time, from the paperwork to the forms, to saying and doing the right thing..it can be tough! But there‘s always a funny side in the end.

Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland

How to figure out how many bedrooms a Swiss apartment has
What the differences in saying hello across German-speaking Switzerland are
What the different public holidays are and why
And a few other questions, including taxes and weddings!

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Taking to the classroom to learn Swiss German

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Many say it can't be done, but some of us will still try! Jo has been attending a Swiss German course and in this episode, she shares her experience of signing up and going to classes. From precisely what the course entails, to what happens in the classroom and the kind of things she has learnt, there were some unexpected elements to the course. Could taking a Swiss German class be something for you? Have a listen as we talk about the pros and cons of taking on learning the local dialect.

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Do you need to know Swiss German to move to Switzerland?

Tue, 21 May 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Moving to a country where you don't speak the language can be a 'chicken and egg' situation: which one comes first, the language or the move? It's a challenging situation for anyone relocating abroad, and for newcomers to German-speaking Switzerland, this is a big issue. It's hard to get hold of resources to learn this dialect outside of the country. Once here, there are many different regional variations to get to grips with, and the differences between Swiss German and high German can feel overwhelming. In this episode we talk about how to get ready to live in a Swiss German- speaking area and what to expect when you first arrive.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

My personal experience of getting to grips with the dialect
The first words or phrases I picked up
How I started to understand Swiss German
Recommendation for newcomers

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Where to find Swiss second-hand delights

Tue, 07 May 2019 07:00:00 +0200

Looking for furniture, clothes or something for your home in Switzerland that won't cost the Earth? Then you definitely need to find your nearest flea market or second-hand shop. In the German-speaking part of the country thrift stores are called "Brockis" (short for "Brockenhäuser"). In this episode we'll take you through how you can find them and what to expect, and tell you where to look online if rummaging for a bargain in person isn't really your thing.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British guide to Switzerland

Different types of Brockis
Chain or independent: Salvation Army, HIOB-international
What to expect
Giving items to a Brocki
Flea markets
Buying second-hand online: tutti.ch, anibis.ch, ricardo.ch

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'Fête des Vignerons': make merry at the Swiss winemakers' festival

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 19:26:43 +0200

If you’ve looked at any Swiss newspapers or programmes in the past few months you’ll have heard about the ‘Fête des Vignerons’. It’s a once-in-a-generation event that sounds like it's not to be missed. So what’s all the fuss about, and will there be wine?

Notes on this episode

We try to answer the most important questions before it begins.

What is the 'Fête des Vignerons'?

The festival is a massive production that takes place in a huge arena in Vevey, French-speaking Switzerland. There is space for 20,000 spectators for every performance. The show itself is a celebration of the winemaking tradition that exists in this part of Switzerland. There is also a festival village with lots of entertainment and music being put on over different stages.

The history of the 'Fête des Vignerons'

It has a long history, estimated to have begun in the 1700s. Back then, the winemakers’ association which represented landowners, awarded winemakers in the region for their work and gave prizes to encourage the perfection of the art of growing the grapes. There was a parade and eventually in 1797 a stage was erected so more people could see the prize giving. At this point the event started to look more like it does today. The last edition was in 1999.

What’s so special about it?

It’s the first living Swiss tradition that’s recognised by UNESCO for its ‘intangible cultural heritage’. It can take place a maximum of five times every hundred years.

What happens in the show?

It’s all about a year in the life of a vineyard, it starts and finishes with the harvest. At the centre of the event is the crowning of winegrowers, who did particularly excellent work. This takes place on July 18. In the show, which is on until August 11, there are 5,500 actors involved, who come from the local region. The costumes are elaborate, handmade, fantastical pieces. There is a gigantic choir, an orchestra, a brass band, a jazz band and more. There are giant video and LED projections.

Where can I get tickets?

Here. They cost from CHF39-359.

Anything else you need to know?

The director of the the 'Fête des Vignerons' is Daniele Finzi Pasca, from Lugano. He created the closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games in Turin in 2006 and Sochi in 2014, and has worked for the Cirque du Soleil.

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Shopping in Switzerland: what do you buy where?

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 07:00:00 +0200

What are the main shops in Switzerland and where do you go for specific items? In this episode we go through the big name shops, what they sell and where you can find them, plus we talk about some smaller, specialised shops or boutiques, and what you can buy online. Find out about the classic out-of-town shops traditionally frequented by farmers which could be useful for you and the surprisingly affordable electronics.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Shopping in Switzerland

Food

Migros, Coop, Denner
Aldi, Lidl
Globus, Manor, Loeb

Clothes

Alprausch
Zalando

Furniture

Ikea
Micasa, Interio, Pfister

Others

Landi
Obi, Migros do-it / Coop bau+hobby
Digitec, Brack
Toppreise.ch

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Dealing with cultural diversity, the Swiss way

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Switzerland is a very diverse country with four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. The Swiss also share their border with five countries: Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. And out of all the people living in Switzerland, 25% don't have a Swiss passport.

So how does this work? How do the Swiss communicate and how do they all get along with each other?

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Marco's post in our Facebook Group that started off this discussion
What makes Switzerland so diverse?
What do the Swiss think about each other, their neighbours, other villages, cantons or countries?
How do the Swiss communicate with each other if they don't speak the same language?
How is the high percentage of foreign nationals living here handled?

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Becoming Swiss, part two: 'Getting the Right Information'

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Applying to become Swiss is a long process and requires lots of forms, documents and appointments. If you've lived in Switzerland long enough to think about applying, this probably won't come as a surprise! In the city of Bern, an information evening is offered to people who want to apply. We went along to clear up some questions I had about the process, and to find out as much information as possible.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

What the evening was like: who was there, what language did they speak, how long did it last
New information we found out: applications to start the process can only be submitted from the day you have been in Switzerland for ten years, citizenship in Switzerland is threefold (local community, canton and federal level)
What you can do in advance of the ten year mark: learn or improve your German and take a recognised language test (A2 written, B1 spoken is required), fulfil residency requirements (check with your local community and canton, and check years in advance. In Bern you need to have lived three of the last five years in the place where you are applying, and the last two years before you apply in the same local community, "Gemeinde" of Bern), get a C permit, and if you previously lived in a different canton you need to apply for the document to confirm when you lived there
Costs vary, but it looks like it will cost approximately CHF3000 and take roughly 2.5 years

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Is it time to take a Swiss German course?

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Communication is key when it comes to fitting in and feeling at home in your adopted country, and being able to understand and speak to people does make your daily life much easier. But that's easier said than done in the German-speaking part of Switzerland where Swiss German is the spoken language. It's a dialect that most Germans struggle to understand and it sounds different in every village you go to.

Learning Swiss German is tricky, but not impossible. After passing my German C1 exam, I decided to give it a go and to help me off to a good start, I signed up for a Swiss German course at the 'Migros Klubschule'.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Is it time to take a Swiss German course?

After the first few hours in the classroom on my course in Bern, we talk about some important points you'll need to know before you decide to start learning Swiss German and I'll give you some insight into my experience so far.

What's it like in the classroom
Taking a Swiss German course - pros and cons
Where can you learn Swiss German, and a helpful episode from our archive: How to learn Swiss German, or would High German be better?
Emil
Bärndütsch, the book
Other points to conside

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Becoming Swiss, part one: 'Before it begins'

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Becoming a Swiss citizen is a long and somewhat complicated path with a few hurdles to overcome along the way. A few weeks from now Jo will start the process of applying to become Swiss and with that, we are beginning a new series in our podcast: 'Becoming Swiss'. It'll track her progress and give you insight into one person's journey through the Swiss naturalisation system.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Becoming Swiss, part one

In this first episode of the new series 'Becoming Swiss', we'll guide you through what it takes in theory to (hopefully!) become a Swiss citizen, what it means to apply for the Swiss passport, hopes and fears, and some personal thoughts on the system.

What does it mean to get the Swiss passport?
What does the procedure involve and what are the general rules?
When can it start and how long will it take?
Does it matter where you start your procedure and when?
How fair is the system?
Why is Jo doing it?
What are her worries?

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What do you say in Switzerland when...

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Do you know how to respond in Switzerland to avoid an intercultural mishap? Once you've started picking up the language as an expat, you'll start to notice the mother-tongue speakers around you reply in certain ways to specific situations or questions. This can be from anything as simple as a sneeze to trickier discussions about salaries, or dare-we-go-there, politics. It can take a while to work out what you need to say when, to avoid seriously offending your new-found friends, colleagues or anyone else you meet, so we have a few short cuts for you.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

When one word isn't enough: saying goodbye
Heard a sneeze? Make sure you're ready with this word...
Food at a restaurant tastes like rubbish? Be prepared to dish this phrase out
What to say (or not to say) when you bump into Bob from the office at the weekend
You're in deep water if you find yourself in a discussion about salaries or politics. Be prepared!

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How to learn to ski as a complete beginner

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 07:00:00 +0100

If you're moving to Switzerland you might think that skiing will become a big part of your life: as a beginner that can either be really exciting or completely terrifying! However you feel about taking to the slopes, it's definitely something to try, or how will you ever know if you like it? Once you've decided to go for it, there are lots of things to consider before you even set foot in the snow.

In this episode we guide you through all the important questions and share our experiences from the side of a complete beginner, and as a former ski instructor!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Does every Swiss ski?
How important is skiing for Swiss people?
Is skiing really a must-do activity if you move to Switzerland?
If you do want to learn, where do you start? Location, slopes, equipment, lessons, first day on skis.

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Ice skating on a frozen Alpine lake

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Imagine walking along a snowy path between the trees in the Swiss Alps until suddenly, a vast lake, completely covered in ice and surrounded by a sheer cliff face, opens up before you: this is what you'll experience if you head to the Osechinensee or Lake Oeschinen in the Bernese Oberland, which has frozen over. It's a veritable winter wonderland!

We wrapped up warm and headed out for a skate on the ice. And we've compiled everything you need to know to experience this magical day in the Swiss mountains.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

- What is the lake like?

- What makes it so special?

- How do I get there?

- What should I take with me?

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How to get over homesickness

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 07:00:00 +0100

You've taken a huge step: packed your bags, filled out all the forms and moved to a completely new place. But once the initial period of excitement wears off, living abroad can start to feel a little bit lonely, especially if your new life isn't fully set up yet, or something great is going on back home. Don’t worry, everyone feels homesick at some point! We've got some ideas to help you get through it.

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The best Christmas present ideas to take home from Switzerland

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 07:00:00 +0100

With only a few weeks to go until Christmas, it's definitely time to pick up the Christmas presents you want to take or send back from Switzerland for friends and family abroad. We have sack-loads of ideas, from traditional Swiss souvenirs, to the more unusual. Hopefully there will be some ideas for you as well!

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Here are some specific gift ideas that we talk about in this episode:

Alprausch
Swiss Federal Railways watch: they even sued Apple over using the design, and won
Caran d’Ache pens and pencils
Läderach chocolate
Tête de moine cheese
Hobelkäse
Belpler Knolle
Kressi vinegar
Products made from Swiss army materials

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How often do Swiss people use other Swiss languages?

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 07:00:00 +0100

Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. But how often do the Swiss use, or try to use, a language that's not their mother tongue? A trip to see the famous annual light projection at the Swiss Federal Palace, the Rendez-vous Bundesplatz, brings up the question as to how much the Swiss are expected to use Swiss languages other than their own in their daily life.

We answer listener questions:
- when are high German and Swiss German used?
- is it possible to get a working holiday visa as a Canadian?

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How to make friends in Switzerland

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 07:00:00 +0100

Making the move to Switzerland is the first big step for expats: starting a social life is one of the next, and it can be just as difficult. The Swiss are not known to be very open at first - luckily there are some simple steps you can take that will make your life in Switzerland easier, and hopefully better.

In this episode we talk about my first steps trying to make friends and get to know people in Switzerland as an expat, and I'll give you some tips and ideas from my own experience. We also talk about some prejudices expats have about Switzerland and give you the Swiss perspective: What do the Swiss think about expats, what do the Swiss think if you don't speak their language and how can you respond if the Swiss are rude?

We really hope this episode will make your life in Switzerland as an English speaker a bit easier and give you the courage to get out there and start making this country your home!

Notes on this episode:

Celebrating the 20th episode of 'Swiss and Chips': thank you for listening! If you like the show, please support us and leave a review on iTunes.
German C1 exam: I took the test: here's how it was, and I explain how a language tandem works.
How I made friends in Switzerland, and what it was like when I first moved here.
Make friends with a Swiss: some tips from a Swiss perspective.

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Swiss German words that don't translate into English: part two

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:00:00 +0200

In German and Swiss German there are some words that we don't have an equivalent for in English. We think you'll find some of them quite useful! As there are so many words that are hard to translate, we split the show into two episodes: this is part two of the Swiss German/ high German challenge. How many of the words do you know?

Notes on this episode of the podcast:

Zugzwang

Innerer Schweinehund

Hundsverlocheti

Bürogummi

Verschlimmbessern

Kummerspeck

Bünzli

Tüpflischiiser

Sturmfrei

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Swiss German words that don't translate into English

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 07:00:00 +0200

Today's episode is a direct challenge for you! We talk about Swiss German words, Swiss slang and German words that are hard to translate into English.

Notes on this episode:

Input from our listeners in our Facebook Group:

Susy: Schadenfreude

Seamus: Bitsly

Katharina: Fremdschämen

Susy's second word: Längizit

Some others:

Fernweh
Feierabend
Muskelkater
Zugzwang
Innerer Schweinehund
Hundsverlocheti
Ohrwurm
Bürogummi
Verschlimmbessern
Kummerspeck
Bünzli
Tüpflischiiser
Sturmfrei

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What to do on a Sunday in Switzerland?

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 07:00:00 +0200

"All" shops are closed on a Sunday in Switzerland! Well, maybe not all, but many at least. Luckily Switzerland offers many other exciting things for expats and tourists to do on a Sunday. We recorded this episode on the top of the Gurten, a 'must see' in Bern - on a Sunday. Tune in and get some inspiration and ideas about what you can do, and what the Swiss do, on a Sunday.

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How to find an apartment in Switzerland as an expat

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 07:00:00 +0200

It's not easy to find the perfect place to live and it's even more difficult if you move to a different country. In this episode we answer the all-important questions for English speakers moving to Switzerland, who are looking for the perfect apartment. Should you rent or buy? How much will it cost? Where to find an apartment in Switzerland as an expat, and which documents will you need before you can secure a lease on a new place. After this episode you'll know where and how to start looking and be prepared for when you find the place you could start to call home, whether it's in Geneva, Zurich or Bern - or somewhere in between.

Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland: How to find an apartment as an expat

This is where it all began for this episode: in our Facebook group, Kate from Moscow asked: "How to find an apartment to rent in Switzerland?"

General things to know about finding a place to live in Switzerland, should you rent or buy, is it difficult to find a place, what possibilities you have as an expat when you move to Switzerland and what are the prices you can expect?

How do you find the perfect area to move to?

A flat-share is called a WG in German, short for Wohngemeinschaft
For a bit of fun and to get the feel of a place, check out this hipster map

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Going to school in Switzerland: for kids and adults

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 07:00:00 +0200

Children in Switzerland walk to school alone. They go home at lunch time and there is no security at the school. A typical Swiss school day also contains some surprises compared to other countries and can be quite a revelation for expats new to Switzerland. In this episode, you'll get two different perspectives: what surprises expats in Switzerland about the schools and what a typical Swiss school day looks like (from someone who's actually been to one)! Plus, we discuss German language exams, and take a trip to a traditional Swiss sports festival.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

The school run - Swiss style - and other surprising aspects of Swiss school routines
The expat and Swiss perspective
Reasons behind these differences
Extra: A visit to the Eidgenössisches Hornussenfest (Federal Hornussen Festival) 2018

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How to find a job in Switzerland

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 07:00:00 +0200

It's one of the big questions you'll be asking yourself before you move to Switzerland: how can I find a job there? Once you arrive in Switzerland it might not prove as easy as you'd hoped to find a job as an expat either. However, if you know where to look for a job and what you must include in an application, it will be much easier.

Where should you look to find a job in Switzerland as a foreigner, how can you make the most of your skills as an expat and what do you need to know before writing your cover letter to a potential employer?

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

Where to look for a job
What to do if you're applying from abroad
What to include in your application
Overcoming your weak spots: the language (s), knowledge of the country, uncertainty over long-term plans, unfamiliar qualifications
Make the most of your strengths: a fresh perspective, knowledge of a specific culture or market that isn't Swiss, different language skills
Q & A from our Facebook group '[Switzerland for English speakers.]

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What's the weather like in Switzerland?

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 07:00:00 +0200

A heatwave has been hitting Europe and while Switzerland’s not part of the EU, it’s still part of Europe! To cool down on these baking hot days, Swiss, tourists and expats alike flock to the country’s lakes, rivers and pools whenever they can.

So is it better to experience summer or winter in Switzerland? In this episode we try to explain Swiss weather and when the best time to visit Switzerland is.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland, as far as the weather is concerned?
An audio message from a listener
Special parts of the Swiss weather forecast
General climate in Switzerland
Weather Apps

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Ten Swiss German phrases you need to know

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 07:00:00 +0200

There are many word or phrases in Swiss German that expats in Switzerland or tourists in the country will start to hear. The dialect varies from place to place in German-speaking Switzerland - so prepare to be surprised!

There also aren't as many grammatical rules as there are in high German, which sounds great in theory, but makes learning Swiss German quite difficult for expats in Switzerland.
But don't let this discourage you if you're thinking of moving here or coming to work here as an expat. You can move to Switzerland without knowing any Swiss German or even German at all and will still be able to communicate, get around without any huge problems, enjoy the Swiss lifestyle or simply start your new life abroad.

To give you a glimpse into Swiss culture, here are a few words and phrases that you will soon hear as an expat in Switzerland or while here on holiday. We talk about where you will hear them and what they mean.

We hope you enjoy the show! If you want to hear more or have any comments, let us know on our website or join the discussion in our Facebook Group ‘Switzerland for English speakers‘.

The Swiss German phrases we talk about in this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland:

- Grüessäch, tschou
- Adjeu, tschüss, uf Widerluegä
- Merci vielmal
- Exgüsee
- Heiter z Zedeli wöuä / Seckli wöuä?
- Gäbig
- Velo
- Z‘nüüni and z‘vieri
- Koleeg or Koleegin
- Stangä

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Wild swimming in Switzerland

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 07:00:00 +0200

Summer has started in Switzerland and with temperatures rising above 30°C, all over the country people are jumping into rivers and lakes to cool down. One more reason why Switzerland is a great place to live as an expat, right? With crystal clear water coming from the Swiss mountains there are many beautiful places to go for a dip, even in the big cities. In this episode we talk about what it's like to go wild swimming in Switzerland as an expat, how to find the best spots and how to stay safe. If you've just moved to Switzerland as an expat, or you're coming here on holiday, it's best to know a little bit about what's involved before jumping into the next river.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

- What is wild swimming and what's special about wild swimming in Switzerland
A. "Badis": supervised swimming areas in naturally occuring water, with facilities
B. Wild-ish swimming: no lifeguards, but some facilities such as steps into the water
C. Completely wild swimming: for example in a mountain lake or stream

- Where to go and what to take

- The best pools, rivers and lakes for swimming in Switzerland

- Think about safety

- Safe swimming courses for expats

- Useful apps

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How to learn Swiss German (or maybe not)

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 07:00:00 +0200

For the first time on our show, we're answering questions from our listeners in the Facebook group "Switzerland for English speakers". If you'd like to join in the discussion, network with other English speakers interested in Switzerland and share your experiences, please feel free to join the group and say 'hello'!

This episode is all English speaking expats in Switzerland need to know about Swiss German and high German. What is Swiss German? Do you need to learn it? And if so, where can you learn it and how. We look at the pros and cons compared to learning high German, and hear how it sounds.

Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland

- What is Swiss German and what is the difference to high German?
- Can you move to Switzerland without knowing any Swiss German?
- Once in Switzerland, what should you learn and what are the pros and cons of Swiss German vs. high German?
- What is the best way to learn (Swiss) German?
- We answer questions from our Facebook group

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Getting to know the Swiss over dinner: do's and don'ts

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 07:00:00 +0200

You've found your way to Switzerland and started setting up a life here. Now it's time to try and get to know the locals, and what better way to do it than over some food? But where to begin? And how to go about it without committing any major faux-pas? There are some simple (unspoken) rules that will enable you to hit the spot. In this episode, we answer the most important questions and give you a glimpse into the Swiss way of thinking, so there will be no big surprises coming your way after the first course.

Notes on this episode of 'Your British Guide to Switzerland'

- First things first: How do you get invited to a Swiss person's home?
- When should you arrive? What is considered too early, or too late?
- What should you bring with you?
- How do you say hello: hugs, kisses, a firm handshake?
- What is the normal procedure after you get there?
- What can you expect in terms of food?
- How long should you stay?
- Which topics of conversation should you avoid?
- How can you follow up afterwards?

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An utterly delightful royal wedding special

Tue, 22 May 2018 07:00:00 +0200

What drives someone who's not particularly interested in the monarchy to watch a full royal wedding? We found out this weekend as we switched our TV over to the BBC and soaked up the atmosphere in Windsor for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding, all from the safety of a Swiss chalet in the Bernese Alps.

Notes on this episode of your 'British guide to Switzerland' podcast

Who pays for a royal wedding? BBC's 'Reality Check' does a nice job of trying to break down the figures, albeit it without too much information at their disposal.

And while we're on the topic... how does the Queen afford all those new dresses?

Not everybody loves the Royal Family, and not everybody wanted to watch the wedding. Campaign group Republic launched a petition in advance of the big day to try and stop taxpayers' money being spent on the event. It had 32,000 signatures.

And something we didn't hear mentioned during the festivities, but which was covered in the UK press beforehand, was how the homeless were having their property, including sleeping bags, put into storage before the wedding, while royalists camped out on the streets overnight to secure a spot to watch the day's events.

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Full steam ahead! Buying Swiss train tickets

Tue, 08 May 2018 07:00:00 +0200

There a number of different types of tickets and railcards you can buy to travel around Switzerland whether you have just moved here, or you're only visiting. We run through the discounts available, where and how to buy tickets and how much you can expect it all to set you back.

The 'GA' - an annual pass for whole country: worth it if you‘re commuting or travelling a lot. CHF3860 per year / CHF340 in monthly installments.
The 'Halb Tax' - the half-fare card: enables you to buy tickets for half price. A one-off payment of CHF185 / CHF165 if you automatically renew.
You can buy weekly and monthly passes for specific routes, prices vary.
The Swiss Federal Railways, SBB, has an app where you can buy all train tickets. Also available in English.
Local transport companies have their own apps where you can find more options than in the SBB app for cheaper tickets for a specific route.
There are ticket machines at railway stations and most bus or tram stops.
Travel at a specific date and time and book in advance: you can get a cheaper 'saver' ticket for the train. Otherwise, the train ticket costs the same all the time, whether you buy your ticket weeks in advance or five minutes before you leave.
For visitors to Switzerland, it can be good value for money to buy an Interrail pass: CHF326 for 3 days travel in Switzerland within one month.
There are also a few varieties of the Swiss Travel Pass which although slightly cheaper, has to be used on consecutive days. Costs CHF225 for 3 days, for example. Includes free entry to many museums.
All of the above prices are second class.

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A typical Swiss picnic

Tue, 01 May 2018 12:00:00 +0200

The food people pack for a picnic would be similar all over Europe, right? Well, as it turns out, a Swiss picnic contains some very typical items, and they're quite different to what would be found in a British picnic basket.

Notes on this episode

Brits in a Swiss newspaper (for all the wrong reasons)
Renewing a British passport when you live in Switzerland
A typical Swiss picnic: what you need to pack
A visit to 'Schwarzwasserbrücke'

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Swiss and Chips: Over the border

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 12:00:00 +0200

We are in Italy for the week: first at the International Journalism Festival in Perugia, and then Rome. In this episode we talk about why it's different to travel from Switzerland to neighbouring countries, than it is from England.

Notes on this episode

* What is it like to have Paris and Rome on your doorstep?
* How often do Swiss travel and how easy is it to cross the border?
* Is there a difference in the way Swiss and Brits travel?
* What is 'shopping tourism' and why is it a big issue in Switzerland?

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The flight factor: flying in and out of Switzerland

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 12:00:00 +0200

Although Switzerland isn't a big country, it still has a number of airports and each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. Looking for the perfect flight home can be like searching for the holy grail at first, but if you know some basics, it becomes pretty straightforward.

Notes on this episode

How can you find your perfect flight home? It's all about a combination of the below factors:

Price
Flight time
Airlines
Airport location and connections

What marks the different Swiss airports apart? We discuss the pros and cons of flying from Basel, Bern, Geneva or Zurich.

And don't forget, these are the basics of finding a cheap flight:

Book early
Compare flights using sites such as Skyscanner and have a look on the airlines' own websites too
Only take hand luggage
If you can, don't fly out Friday evening and return Sunday evening

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What do the Swiss think about British people

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 12:00:00 +0100

Most Swiss have an opinion about everything and everyone. And that includes the English. Although the first image that springs to mind when thinking of the English might be one of Brits abroad: the red faced, football shirt-wearing, beer can-waving lad that's a familiar sight in warmer countries during the summer months; on second thought, the English also have a reputation for being polite, respectful or even admirable.

In this episode we talk about some of the most commonly-held prejudices some Swiss have about the Brits and Jo has the chance to defend British culture.

Notes on this episode

Let's do this the Swiss way, by starting a critical conversation with some compliments and positive points:

Gentlemen and traditionalists
The Queen and James Bond
the British accent

Although the Swiss are generally respectful about the Brits, not all thoughts are positive:

British food
British weather
Red skin
The Brits and alcohol

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Food: eat your way happy!

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 12:00:00 +0100

Chunky chips or skinny fries? And is there a place in any ham sandwich for a slice of gherkin and a bit of hard-boiled egg? There are some big differences between Swiss and British food, and the expectations on both sides. Jo and Simon talk about what they love and hate in both country's cuisines.

Notes on this episode

Simon's first experience with Fish and Chips. Chips vs. skinny fries: the big cultural difference.
Nordsee from Nordsee.
The perfect sandwich from M&S vs. Swiss sandwiches with gherkin, tomato and egg.
The full English breakfast and Swiss breakfast with Birchermüsli.
Jo's three favourite Swiss meals.
Chocolate in all varieties, eg. 5er + s'Weggli

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Swiss surprises - expectations versus reality

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 12:00:00 +0100

The first show is about Swiss surprises: expectations versus reality.

Notes on this episode

All about the Swiss and Chips podcast, why we're making a podcast in the first place and what can you expect.
Jo talks about how she moved from England to Switzerland.
Jo's expectations of Switzerland and the (surprising) reality.
We discuss snow, toothpaste and obviously chocolate.
How to get a bank account in Switzerland.
Switzerland's four national languages.
Cash vs. card payment.
Children and how they get to school.
The 'bad' experiences when Jo first arrived in Switzerland.
Swiss timing: How late is 'late' in Switzerland.

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