Travel Information for Switzerland

Solothurn, 15.09.2015
Travel Information for Switzerland
Swiss-Indian Classroom
1.
In brief
Time difference:
Switzerland is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time, and 4 ½ hours behind Indian Standard Time.
From the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, Switzerland
uses daylight saving time (summer time) and is 3 ½ hours behind Indian
Standard Time.
Currency:
Swiss francs CHF (often abbreviated Fr)
1 franc = 100 Rappen (German) / centimes (French)
1 CHF = 66 INR
100 INR = 15 CHF
Traffic:
Switzerland drives on the right
Country dialling
code:
Power supply:
+41
230V, 50Hz, similar to India
Sockets:
Type C:
Emergency
numbers in
Switzerland:
and Type J:
General emergency calls: 112
Fire service: 118
Police: 117
Ambulance: 144
Representations:
Embassy of India
Kirchenfeldstrasse 28
CH-3005 Bern
+41 31 350 11 30
Fax: +41 31 351 15 57
india@indembassybern.ch
www.indembassybern.ch
Consulate General of India
E Floor, 9, Rue du Valais,
CH-1202, Geneva
+ 41 22 906 86 86
Fax: + 41 22 906 86 76
mission.india@ties.itu.int
www.pmindiaun.org
After office hours/in emergency only:
+ 41 78 819 96 38
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2.
General travel information
2.1
Languages
Switzerland has four national languages: German (spoken by 63.5%), French (22.5%), Italian
(8.1%) and Romansh (0.5%). They are spoken in four different language regions, but have the
status of official languages at national level.
Chart: Linguistic regions of Switzerland. Source: Wikimedia
Migration means that many other languages are also spoken in Switzerland. English and Portuguese are the most common of these. In addition to a second national language, Children learn
English at school. Most of the Swiss population is able to communicate in English to a greater
or lesser extent.
2.2
Society
The resident population of Switzerland was 8.237 million at the end of 2014. In 2013, the Swiss
economy was the third-strongest in the world. With its trading and financial services industry,
the service sector is the largest segment of the economy, although tourism and manufacturing
are also important. Switzerland is well known for the production of luxury goods such as watches, jewellery and Swiss army knives, as well as speciality goods like chocolate and cheese.
Swiss wages – and living costs – are among the highest in the world. Rent and daily living expenses are considerable. Switzerland has a tight mesh of social security schemes, such as oldage, survivors' and disability pension provision, as well as unemployment insurance. Despite
this, even in Switzerland there are people living in poverty.
2.3
Politics
Switzerland is a direct federal democracy. The country is divided into 26 cantons. The electorate elects the parliament at municipal, cantonal and national level, and is also able to vote on
laws proposed by parliamentarians. The people can also launch popular initiatives to introduce
new laws or amend existing ones. These referenda are held four times a year.
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Switzerland's government is not led by a president or a prime minister. Instead, the government
consists of the Federal Council, a collegial body of seven individuals, who are each elected for a
four-year term of office.
The cantons are essentially organised in the same way as the Confederation. Each canton has
its own constitution, its own legislative and executive authorities, and its own courts. The cantons also have their own parliaments and cantonal governments.
All government tasks which the federal constitution does not confer upon the Confederation fall
within the authority of the cantons: schools, the police, cantonal tax law, the constitution of the
courts, healthcare, and planning and construction law, etc.
2.4
Religion
Christianity remains the most heavily represented religion in Switzerland. This is one of the
reasons that shops and businesses are generally shut on Sundays (there are exceptions at railway stations, petrol stations and at tourist destinations), and why you will hear church bells
ringing (almost) everywhere, every day, sometimes several times a day – and especially on Sundays and public holidays. Over time, however, religion in Switzerland has become just as diverse as the cultures and languages of its population. These cultural and religious shifts have
been the subject of occasionally heated political debate. In a November 2009 referendum, a
constitutional amendment banning the construction of new minarets was approved by 57.5% of
participating voters.
For an overview of religious communities in Switzerland, presented especially for guests from
abroad, can be found on this website: http://www.religionslandschaft.ch/en/welcome/
2.5
Tradition and customs
Cultural life in Switzerland revolves around a large number of local events, customs and traditions. Those best known outside Switzerland are yodelling, the alphorn, the "Jass" card game
and cheese-making. In reality, however, the country has a much richer and more varied culture.
The Basel Fasnacht, or carnival, is one of the best-known customs. Held every year, usually in
February, this festival begins in the early morning, at 4.00 am, with what is known as the Morgenstraich. Another tradition that is known throughout Switzerland is Sechseläuten. Held in
Zurich, it celebrates the end of winter and involves a parade and the burning of an effigy of a
snowman, the Böögg. Western Switzerland, meanwhile, has its Fête des Vendanges winemakers' festival in Neuchâtel, which lasts for three days and closes with a spectacular flower
parade. Schwingen (Swiss wrestling), Steinstossen (stone putting) and Hornussen (which resembles golf) are all typically Swiss sports.
2.6
Education system
In Switzerland, education is a government (cantonal and/or federal) responsibility from the
beginning of compulsory education up to and including tertiary level, including universities and
vocational education and training. Responsibility for education lies primarily with the 26 cantons. The cantons and the federal government each have their own responsibilities for postcompulsory education. The majority of students in Switzerland complete compulsory education
at a state school in the municipality in which they live. Roughly 5% attend a private school.
A detailed presentation of the Swiss school system can be found here:
http://www.edk.ch/dyn/16342.php
2.7
Geography / climate / seasons
Switzerland is centrally located in Europe and has no direct access to the sea. The country has
a total surface area of 41,285 km2. Switzerland will be familiar to many Indians thanks to images from Bollywood films, in particular those of Yash Chopra. Snow-capped peaks, steel-blue
lakes, thick forests and brightly-coloured meadows are all part of the landscape, which may also
include vineyards, ranges of hills, or crop fields and grazing land, depending on the region.
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The Alps, which stretch from west to east with peaks of up to 4,000 metres, divide the country's climate. While the country north of the Alps has a moderate, middle-European climate, that
south of the Alps is more Mediterranean. North of the Alps, the average temperature is 1°C in
January and 17°C in July. Average temperatures in the south are are 2-3°C higher.
There are great differences in the seasons in Switzerland. The autumn, from September to November, is when the fruit ripens, the leaves colour, and there is frequent rain. In the winter,
from December to February, temperatures are often below zero, especially at altitude. There
may also be widespread snow. The spring, from March to May, is when the trees blossom and
the countryside turns green again. The winter can return again for a time in April, and there can
also be summer temperatures in May. In summer, from June to August, temperatures rise to
between 25 and 30°C, although it may be even hotter during the height of the season.
The temperature can vary depending on the altitude. We recommend having a pullover, shoes
with good grips, sun cream, sunglasses, and an umbrella or a light rain jacket with you.
2.8
Health
A world of new experiences, unfamiliar food, a change of climate and the time difference can all
take their toll. To combat this, ensure that you get enough rest and that you drink enough fluids.
If you wear glasses, bring a spare pair with you, and also write down your prescription in case
you lose your glasses or break them. Getting new ones won't be a problem.
If you rely on certain medicines, bring enough supplies with you from home. In Switzerland, you
will need a doctor's prescription for many medicines that are freely available in India.
There are few health risks in Switzerland. In an emergency, you can go to any doctor's practice
or hospital. If the matter is urgent, call an ambulance on 144, or the REGA helicopter rescue on
1414. You will need the latter especially if you are somewhere inaccessible or have had a very
serious accident. Pharmacies can be found in every town and city. They are also able to treat
minor wounds and insect bites. Swiss citizens are required by law to take out health insurance.
In the case of emergency or illness, this insurance will cover most of the costs of medical
treatment, medicines and care. Patients from outside Switzerland are advised to check with
their own insurer what costs will be covered, before they begin treatment.
2.9
Immunisations
You do not have to have any particular immunisations before entering Switzerland. Immunisations for infectious diseases are required only if the person travelling has spent time in an infected area in the 14 days prior to entering Switzerland.
2.10 Security
Switzerland has a low rate of violent crime; however, crimes of all types do occur. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are the most common. Always keep your wallet and luggage with
you in busy places such as the airport, railway station, city centre and in the train. In cities and
larger towns, women are well advised not to be out alone after dark.
Please remember that you need to be properly equipped to go walking in the mountains. If you
don't know the area, do not attempt steep slopes on your own. The basic rules are not to take
risks, not to push yourself, and if in doubt, to turn back.
2.11 Clothing
There is no dress code for leisure clothing in Switzerland. Young people, in particular, are heavily influenced by American glamour, and may dress in quite a revealing way. However, since
Swiss society is very multicultural, you are just as likely to meet traditionally-dressed Muslims
and Africans.
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In other words, in Switzerland, you can dress the way you are comfortable. However, please
remember that it can be cool, even in summer. You should therefore bring a warm jacket, pullover, and closed shoes. These are essential on any trip to the mountains.
2.12 Visa requirements
Please refer to the special information sheet on visa requirements for Switzerland.
2.13 Means of payment
There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that you can bring in to or take out
of Switzerland. We recommend that you bring US dollars or euros. You can change money at
the airport, at major railway stations, and at banks. All common credit cards are accepted in
Switzerland. You will find cashpoints and/or banks in almost all towns and villages. People in
Switzerland do not normally pay by cheque.
2.14 Value-added tax (VAT)
A VAT rate of 8% applies to most goods and services in Switzerland, and is generally included in
tagged prices. A reduced rate of 2.5% applies to certain everyday consumer goods such as
foodstuffs, non-alcoholic beverages, books, newspapers, magazines, medicines, and also to
tickets for sports and cultural events. Overnight hotel stays (incl. breakfast) are taxed at a special rate of 3.8%.
You may request a refund of the taxes you paid on goods when you leave the country. To qualify
for a refund, goods purchased must have a minimum value of CHF 300. For information on the
conditions governing tax exemption and on the necessary documents, go to the website of the
Federal Tax Administration:
http://www.ezv.admin.ch/zollinfo_privat/04342/04353/04358/index.html?lang=en
2.15 Telephones / wireless internet
Mobile phones are widespread in Switzerland. If your phone is not restricted to a particular
provider (with a SIM lock), a low-cost option is to insert a prepaid card from a Swiss network
provider. To buy a Swiss SIM card, you will need your passport and a copy of your visa. Major
prepaid providers include Migros M-Budget, Coop Mobile, Aldi Suisse Mobile, Yallo, and Lebara.
Mobile network operators such as Swisscom and Sunrise also offer prepaid cards, but please
note that tourists are not able to buy prepaid cards from Salt.
Prepaid cards can be bought and loaded with credit in many places: at kiosks, in supermarkets
(Coop, Migros, Aldi) and at Asian, Indian or Arab grocery stores, as well as in consumer electronics outlets (Interdiscount), at the post office or at the train station.
Your host family is sure to be able to help you buy a card.
Many larger towns and cities offer free wireless internet. Free wifi can also be found at railway
stations and in trains, in shopping centres, and in some restaurants and hotels.
2.16 Public holidays
The only national public holiday is 1 August. Other public holidays are governed by the cantons.
All of them recognise New Year's Day, Ascension Day and 25 December as holidays, and shops
and other businesses remain closed. Most recognised cantonal public holidays have Christian
origins. Corpus Christi, the Assumption of Mary, All Saints's Day and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception are celebrated only in Catholic cantons.
2.17 Gender and sexuality
Men and women are equal before the law in Switzerland. Relations between the sexes are relatively relaxed. It is normal to kiss, hold hands or exchange other gestures of affection in public.
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Young women, in particular, dress in a very revealing way, but this should not be interpreted as
an invitation to touch. It is normal for young men and women to make intense eye contact and
to flirt casually, but this should not be interpreted as an invitation for anything else.
The age of consent in Switzerland is 16, meaning that individuals can have sex with anyone
older than them, but at this age not with anyone more than three years younger. Most teenagers in Switzerland have lost their virginity by the age of 17.
Homosexual acts are legal in Switzerland, and the constitution explicitly prohibits government
discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. It has been possible to register same-sex
partnerships since 2007. By contrast, forced marriages and marriages between minors are not
valid.
2.18 Special legal provisions
Light alcoholic drinks, such as beer and wine, can be sold to young people from the age of 16.
The age limit is 18 for all other alcoholic drinks, such as spirits.
Tobacco goods (cigarettes) can be bought in almost all cantons from the age of 16, although
some cantons have an age limit of 18. Smoking is banned in Switzerland in most restaurants
and bars, as well as in enclosed public spaces, such as schools, railways stations, public offices,
etc. and at work.
Possession of drugs of all kinds is forbidden. The consumption of narcotics is generally punished with a fine, regardless of the drug in question. Cultivating, consuming and dealing in cannabis is also prohibited in Switzerland. Since 2013, the possession of up to 10 grammes of the
drug has been subject to a fine of CHF 100, although the new regime applies only to adults.
Young people under the age of 18 will continue to receive a youth caution.
In some places, littering in publicly accessible places such as streets, parks and squares is punishable by a fine.
All drivers and cyclists must abide by the rules of the road. Many places have radar to monitor
compliance with speed limits and red lights. Those who break the rules can expect to receive a
hefty fine.
3.
Out and about
3.1
Travel documents and emergency information
It is worth having all participants fill out an emergency information sheet, stating their personal
details, passport and visa numbers with the date and place of issue, contact address in India in
case of emergency, health insurer, etc. In addition, make copies of all of the participants' important travel documents (passports, visas, flight tickets, etc.) and keep everything separately.
Make a note of the address and telephone number of the closest Indian consulate, and carry it
at all times. If a passport is lost or stolen, notify the nearest Indian consulate immediately.
3.2
Communication in the group
Make sure that you have host family contact information for all participants. It can also be helpful to set up a shared WhatsApp group. If possible, have all participants give you their mobile
phone numbers, in case anyone gets "lost", or does not appear at the meeting point at the
agreed time.
3.3
Transport
Even with a group of 20-25 people, you can still travel around in Switzerland using public
transport (train/bus). Groups do need to make seat reservations, however. You can do this
directly at the ticket counter at the railway station, or call the 24-hour Rail Service on 0900 300
300 (CHF 1.19/minute from a Swiss landline). Further information is available from this website: https://www.sbb.ch/en/leisure-holidays/groups.html
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For tourists travelling around Switzerland extensively by train and bus, it is worth buying a Swiss
Travel Pass, which is an all-in-one ticket for trains, buses and boats throughout the country. The
Pass costs CHF 374 for 15 days for young people under the age of 25.
The Swiss rail and bus network is well developed and safe, and can be used by children and
young people alone, without being accompanied by an adult. However, in view of their lack of
local knowledge, we would still ask you to make sure that your students do not travel around on
their own, but are accompanied whenever possible by Swiss students.
3.4
Drinking water
The water at most public fountains and water points is drinkable and checked regularly. Instead
of buying expensive mineral water, it makes sense to carry a water bottle and refill it often. The
only time you should not do this is if there is a sign reading "kein Trinkwasser / eau non potable".
3.5
Clear rules
Under Swiss law, young people in Switzerland are granted rights and freedoms at an early age.
The age of consent is 16, and this is also the age at which young people are permitted to drink
alcohol and buy tobacco products (in some cantons). There are no laws on when young people
are allowed to be out in the evening – these rules are set by parents. From the age of 16, young
people are also free to go to cafés, restaurants, bars, clubs, amusement arcades, and internet
cafés. We therefore advise setting rules of conduct with the host school and host parents in
advance.
3.6
Crisis communications
With today's communications technologies, it may be assumed that the participants will keep in
touch with their families in India (via text message, social media and Skype, etc.) while they are
in Switzerland. This can sometimes be problematic if rumours begin to circulate in India about
illnesses, emergencies, or things not going to plan. Talk to the participants about what will be
communicated, how and by whom. You should also draw a crisis communications strategy in
advance with the school's management team.
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4.
Dos and don’ts in Switzerland
Visiting a new country with an unfamiliar culture can lead to problems that are generally caused
by misunderstandings or ignorance of certain ways and customs. Simply being aware of certain
dos and don’ts goes a long way to avoiding situations that can be frustrating for both host and
visitor.
4.1
Eating and drinking
-
Switzerland is like many other cultures in that sharing a meal is one of the key elements of
living together. Since both parents often work, in some cases quite a distance away from
home, lunch is frequently eaten out.
-
Table manners are very important to many families: not eating before everyone is at the
table, waiting to eat until the hostess begins, waiting to be asked instead of serving yourself, not leaving the table before everyone is finished, not talking with your mouth full, keeping both hands above the table and not putting elbows on the table. It is probably best to
observe the family's habits.
-
The Swiss consider eggs – and sometimes fish – to be vegetarian so please ensure that you
specify no eggs or fish when you place a vegetarian meal order.
-
Glass, paper, metal and organic waste is separated in private homes and often also in
schools.
-
Most take-away meals come with a great deal of packaging, which must be disposed of in
the public waste bins that are available everywhere.
-
Burping or spitting at the table is frowned upon in Switzerland.
-
In Switzerland, household chores are usually shared by everyone. It is therefore appreciated
when guests help to set the table, bring the food in, and help to clear and wash up.
-
Most Swiss people are uncomfortable with visitors just dropping in. It's best to call in advance and ask if it is OK to stop by. Before going through the door, ask whether or not you
should take your shoes off.
-
Alcohol is a traditional and firmly rooted part of Swiss culture. Young people may drink wine
and beer from as early as 16. The Swiss often meet after work for a beer or glass of wine,
and alcohol is also often served with a shared meal. However, you can always refuse alcohol without anyone thinking badly of you.
-
If you are invited for a meal, it is customary to take a small gift with you, such as a bottle of
wine, chocolate or sweets, or flowers. Be aware, though, that not all flowers are appropriate. Red roses should be saved for romantic partners!
-
The Swiss like cheese, and not only in the form of fondue or raclette. Cheese is hard to
digest, however so start with small portions only.
4.2
Communications
-
Most Swiss speak reasonably good English. They can often be reserved with foreign guests,
but are happy to provide information or help in other ways.
-
The Swiss like their formal greetings: stretching out their hand, they say “grüezi” (Swiss
German) or “bonjour!” (French) for hello. In the western part of the country, in particular,
when meeting a friend they may kiss them three times: right cheek, then left, then right
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again. The latter exchange is for women greeting women and men greeting women. You
may stick with a handshake, if you prefer, but refusing to shake hands is considered rude.
-
Meeting people: in smaller towns and villages, it is normal to say hello to people you pass in
the street, even if you do not know them. This is rare in cities and larger towns.
-
On the telephone, you first say hello to the person on the other end of the line, then you say
your name. Only then do you begin the actual conversation.
-
It is normal to say please ("bitte" / "s'il vous plait") and thank you ("danke" / "merci"), and
considered rude not to.
-
Remember that, in Switzerland, shaking your head means "no" and nodding denotes a
"yes". Swiss often misunderstand Indians in this respect.
-
It is not common practice to address business partners by their first names unless invited
to do so.
-
The Swiss generally write the numeral "1" like the Indian "7" whereas their "7" has the stem
crossed through. In addition, they use a point to separate centimes from francs when writing prices.
4.3
Shopping
-
Porters are a rarity in Switzerland. You are expected to carry your own bags in hotels, stations, cabs, coaches etc. Similarly, you will not be guided to your table in Switzerland. Waiters, cleaners, shop assistants, porters, etc. are treated with the same respect as other professionals.
-
Prices in Swiss shops are generally fixed and it is not possible to bargain. In shops, goods
once opened are considered sold.
-
With the exception of those at railway stations and airports, as well as in tourist areas,
shops remain shut on Sundays and public holidays. On weekdays, they will generally be
open between 9.00 am and 6.30 pm, although there is some cantonal variation.
-
Tipping is not necessary in Switzerland as service charges are included with the bill. However, it is common – though by no means obligatory – to leave a little something extra in
restaurants, taxis, etc.
4.4
-
4.5
Photography
You can take photographs almost everywhere in Switzerland, but leave your camera or
phone in your bag at outdoor swimming pools and lidos, at the circus, or at the theatre or
opera. Some museums and churches ban photography, but there will generally be clear
signs if this is the case.
Transport
-
Tickets for public transport must be purchased before boarding – especially in trains and
trams. In some cases, tickets must be punched at the machines at bus/tram stops.
-
As in most European cities, buses in Switzerland do not stop automatically at all designated
stops. If you see your bus coming, wave to indicate that you want to get on. Similarly, there
are buttons in most buses to indicate that you want to get off. Press it the moment your
stop is announced. If no one presses the button, the driver will simply pass your stop.
-
Always let other passengers get off first before getting on. Many Indians have the unconscious habit of pushing their way in as soon as the train or bus stops. You can save yourself
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dirty looks and irritated noises from your fellow passengers by being aware that Switzerland
does things differently.
-
In Switzerland, as in most northern European countries, loud mobile phone conversations
on buses and trains are frowned upon.
-
Always stand on the right when using an escalator. The left side is left free for people in a
hurry who want to walk or run.
-
Swiss people can be almost pedantic about traffic rules. If a traffic light is red, they will
wait, even if there are no other cars in sight.
-
Pedestrians have right of way on pedestrian crossings, but when crossing the road it is still
safest to wait until the cars have actually stopped.
4.6
Manners and behaviour
-
Punctuality is a serious issue in Switzerland and appointments are expected to be kept.
Trains, buses and boats depart punctually as per their timetable.
If you have arranged to meet someone, you are expected to be on time. The rule applies
equally to professional life, dealings with the authorities, and private events. If you find
yourself running late, call right away to tell the other person.
-
Discipline is the order of the day in Switzerland. Expect to find it in queues, at counters, etc.
-
Switzerland is a law-abiding country. Rules and regulations are strictly followed, with lawbreakers being penalised.
-
The Swiss are very clean and expect all litter to be disposed of only in the rubbish bins provided. Littering in public places is an offence. Some places have different containers for various types of waste such as glass bottles, aluminium cans, etc.
-
Like the British, the Swiss person's home is their castle. This extends to their well-tended
gardens, with flower beds and fruit trees. Do not pick fruit or flowers from anyone's garden!
4.7
Religion
-
You must avoid loud conversations in churches.
-
Men should remove any hat or other head-covering when entering church.
-
As they go in, Catholics will sprinkle themselves with holy water and cross themselves in
front of the altar. You do not have to do the same if you are not a Christian.
-
Obviously, smoking, eating and drinking are all prohibited in church. Turn your mobile
phone to silent or, even better, switch it off entirely.
-
Only the clergy are permitted to enter certain areas of the church, such as the sanctuary or
sacristy. These will generally be marked with signs or closed off, and you should respect
this.
4.8
-
Hygiene
Squat toilets are not common in Switzerland. Foreigners are expected to respect common
Western toilet etiquette: to sit on toilet seats rather than to squat on them, to flush the toilet and to throw used toilet paper in the toilet and not in the waste bin. In some cases, foreign tourists have also been accused of defecating in the shower.
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-
5.
Toilet users are expected to use toilet paper. You will find no shower, bucket or mug of
water to wash yourself. However you will almost always find a brush next to the toilet for
cleaning the bowl.
Sources and useful links
For more information, please refer to:
-
Swiss National Tourist Office: www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/
-
Switzerland for Movie Stars (brochure): www.filmlocation.ch/uploads/indian_films.pdf
-
Swiss authorities online: www.ch.ch/en
-
Swiss education portal: www.educa.ch/en
-
Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education: http://www.edk.ch/dyn/11553.php
-
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (on Swiss-Indian relations):
www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/fdfa/representations-and-travel-advice/india.html
-
Maps of Switzerland from the Federal Office of Topography swisstopo:
www.swisstopo.admin.ch/internet/swisstopo/en/home.html
-
50 Years of Indian Cinema in Switzerland: http://www.newlyswissed.com/50-years-indiancinema-switzerland/
-
Promotion of Switzerland’s image abroad – Presence Switzerland:
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/das_eda/organisation_deseda/generalsekret
ariat/praesenz_schweiz.html
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6.
Packing list
Find out your baggage allowance – number of items and weight – from your airline. Economy
class passengers are generally limited to one piece of checked luggage of around 20 kg in
weight (the limit on Indian Airlines is only 15 kg). You will also be able to take one piece of hand
luggage no larger than 55 x 30 x 20 cm, and no heavier than 7 kg (some airlines have a limit of
10 kg).
6.1
Clothes
Pullover / fleece / thin jacket
Long trousers / skirt
Shorts (May to September)
T-shirts (long and short-sleeved)
Full-length pyjamas
Underwear
Socks
Hat / other head-covering
Scarf / shawl
Bag for dirty washing
Sturdy shoes
Sandals (May to September)
Shower sandals
Trainers
Swimsuit / swim shorts
Hand towel / beach towel
Washcloth
6.2
Toiletry bag
Toothbrush
Toothpaste*
Soap*
Shampoo*
Moisturiser*
Sun cream* / after-sun lotion* (May to September)
Deodorant*
Pocket mirror
Tissues
Personal hygiene items for women
Contact lens solutions and case
Personal medicines
6.3
Documents (plus copies)
Passport (valid for at least a further six months)
Currency wallet
Proof of insurance (health insurance)
Cash (euros / US dollars)
International credit card
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6.4
Other items
Daypack
Luggage labels
Project materials
Paper / pens/pencils / diary
Addresses
Travel games / playing cards
Book / magazines
Torch
Penknife*
Mobile phone
USB stick
Camera
(Rechargeable) batteries
Chargers
Sunglasses
Glasses & prescription
Host(ess) gifts (e.g. spices, tea, etc.)
6.5
Travel first aid kit (for the group)
Check with your partner school if they already have a travel first aid kit that you can use.
Plasters
Poss. gauze / compresses / bandages
Antiseptic cream* / disinfectant spray*
Clinical thermometer
A product to treat insect bites
A product to treat stomach problems / nausea
Painkillers (paracetamol, no aspirin)
Nasal spray*
A product to treat sore throats* / coughs / flu-like infections
6.6
For the teacher in charge (for the initial contact visit, in particular)
Letter of introduction from the school principal expressing support for the project
Information about your school (brochure, etc.)
Photos and video and/or sound recordings to give an impression of your school
and your daily lives (check device compatibility!)
Camera
Tourist information about the area in which your school is located, including posters
Messages from your students (initial contact visit)
Relevant planning and teaching documentation, holiday plans and information
about the education system (initial contact visit)
Gifts – especially ones with a link to your school and its setting. Bring more than
you think you will need, as you may meet more people, enjoy more hospitality, and
receive more gifts yourself, than you expect.
* Liquids, knives and sharp objects must be transported in checked-in baggage.
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ch Stiftung für eidgenössische Zusammenarbeit
Dornacherstrasse 28A
Postfach 246
CH-4501 Solothurn
Tel +41 32 346 18 00
Fax +41 32 346 18 02
info@chstiftung.ch
www.chstiftung.ch
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