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Swiss Climate
Switzerland's climate is evenly moderate without
excessive heat, cold or humidity. Depending on the altitude the
temperatures may vary. It is a good idea to pack a sweater, comfortable
walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a compact umbrella or a light
rain coat. From July to August the daytime temperature spans from
18 to 27°C (64 to 81°F) and from January to February the
range is -1 to 5 °C (30 to 59°F). In spring and autumn,
the daytime temperature range is 8 to 15 °C (46 to 59°F).
Summit and City
Like an entire continent within the borders of
one country, Switzerland is a Europe-in-miniture, that embracs all
the captivating contrasts of a unique diversity of natural and manmade
attractions. With a excellent public transportation system to boot,
accessibility is made easy for the vacationer as well as the locals.
Captivating Bern
Bern is Switzerland's capital, seat of the federal
government and parliament. The well-preserved old town - recognized
as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO - features Europe's largest
medieval, covered-shopping center. Nearby Lausanne located on Lake
Geneva rests amid a scenic setting of Alpine peaks and verdant vineyards.
The city is steeped in cultural and historical heritage and has
an abundance of private schools and educational institutions. Lucerne
is one of Switzerland's most picturesque cities, and a popular tourist
destination. Major sites include a 14th century Chapel Bridge (the
oldest wooden bridge in Europe).
Cosmopolitan and Cultural
Zurich is known worldwide as Switzerland's most
important financial center, renowned for its banking transactions.
Located lake Zurich, it is the country's largest city. The Bahnhofstrasse
can possibly be considered as the country's most attractive shopping
center with streets handsomly decorated in warm city lights.
The French-language city of Geneva is the most
cosmopolitan city of all Switzerland. Considered to be where all
the world meets, Geneva is the European headquarters of the United
Nations as well as many other international organizations. Lake
Geneva that borders France is the largest lake in Western Europe.
Basel is the second largest city, and the northern
gateway to Switzerland bordering both France and Germany. Situated
on the River Rhine, Basel is the most important commercial waterway
in Europe. Basel is also acclaimed as "the cultural heart of
Switzerland" (approximately 30 museums).
Timeless Treasures
St.Gallen is the the university city of Eastern
Switzerland and a centre of learning and culture. The Abbey is revered
as a UNESCO World Heritage. The Library at the Abby is one of the
oldest in the Western world, housing thousands of rare books and
manuscripts. Lugano is largest city in Italian-speaking Canton of
Ticino. Beautifully situated on Lake Lugano, the city is Switzerland's
southernmost commercial and tourist center. Neuchâtel is a
future-minded city, situated amidst lakes and vineyards. The castle
here is nearly a thousand year's old, and is used as a collegiate
church. The Papiliorama Nocturama Tropical Gardens. is an interesting
attraction. Watchmaking is a part of its rich cultural life and
history.
Peaks and Palms
The Lake Geneva Region is a miniature Switzerland,
packed with scenic delights. Major cities include Geneva and Lausanne,
its natural attractions Alpine peaks and palms. Lakeside resort
Montreux is famous for its jazz festival and Vevey is the venue
of one of the world's great wine pageants - the Fête des Vignerons
- staged only a few times every century.
City Transportation System
Switzerland has a good transport system, especially
in the cities, featuring streetcars and buses. Tickets are sold
at bus stops and transportation stations, requiring you to carry
change around. Tickets cannot be purchased on the vehicles themselves.
In the event of an inspection, persons without a valid ticket will
have to pay a considerable fine in addition to the actual fare.
The Swiss Pass and the Swiss Flexi Pass are can be used in urban
transportation networks throughout the country.
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