issue 3/2021 helloswitzerland.ch Presenting Partner:
TOP WINTER
ACTIVITIES
ULTIMATE
SWISS GIFT GUIDE
BEST CHRISTMAS
MARKETS
WIN 2 NIGHTS
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5
FEATURED PARTNER: DISCOVER SWITZERL AND
SNOWSHOE THROUGH A WINTER WONDERLAND GUIDED TOURS LEAD TO THE BEST VIEWS OF THE ALETSCH GLACIER Provided by: Switzerland Tourism
Read more here
If you’re taking the cable car to Moosfluh, it’s normal to stop and stare. The Aletsch Glacier is simply breath-taking. But the best way to discover the glacier and surrounding Aletsch Arena is by foot. Snowshoeing with a guide allows you to access secret spots off the beaten path. Adventurers of any level can enjoy the experience of walking on top of the snow. The journey is the destination, and the reward is a stunning view that tops any postcard photo.
Photo: © Switzerland Tourism/ Silvano Zeiter 6
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
A snowshoeing tour in a winter wonderland surrounded by the longest glacier in the Alps and the mighty Valais mountain peaks – that’s a quintessential Swiss activity perfect for families and anyone drawn to natural beauty.
Where to start Snowshoeing is an ideal activity for anyone who wants to move freely in the snowy outdoors and wants to recharge their batteries in the fresh Valais mountain air. In the Aletsch Arena, trails are clearly marked and can be explored by beginners and experienced snowshoers. With a guide leading the way, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site from a local’s perspective and enjoy the view from hidden spots you won’t find on a map. Guided tours take place during the day, in the evening or at night. On a booked tour, you can also visit the Pro Natura Aletschwald nature reserve.
Majestic peaks as far as the eye can see The Aletsch Glacier is only one highlight of the snowshoe tour. The next stop is just as enchanting. From east to west, 4,000-metre peaks will come into view. Of the 28 peaks, the Matterhorn is the most prominent, the Weisshorn is the whitest, and the Dom is the highest. These are some of Switzerland’s crowning jewels, best enjoyed in silence as you take in the impressive panorama.
Watch out for wildlife If you’re lucky, you might see the animals that call Aletsch Arena home. Snow grouse, hare and foxes can be found hunting or scurrying home. If they’re not in sight, your guide can point out the tracks they left behind and the story they tell.
The fairy-tale Villa Cassel in Riederalp © Switzerland Tourism/ Sylvia Michel
Meet one of your guides Ed, short for Edelbert Kummer, knows the area better than anyone. He was one of the first in the region to offer guided snowshoe tours in the 1990s – and at over 80 years old, he’s still leading groups to his favourite viewpoints. He believes the peace and freedom of snowshoe tours is a balm for the soul. He loves leading groups through the Aletsch forest where some trees were found to be nearly 1,000 years old. A break at an abandoned winter hut is the perfect spot for a snack of Swiss cheese and dried meats – exactly what is needed to refuel before Ed takes snowshoers to his next favourite spot.
Explore Aletsch Arena In 2020, Aletsch Arena was recognised as the “Best Ski Resort” in the “Rest and Recreation” category. The sunny plateau is dotted with three car-free villages that boast almost limitless possibilities to bask in the winter wonderland. The Aletsch Arena is known for offering the most liberating natural experience in the Alps with pristine nature and unrivalled mountain scenery.
Your tour guide, Ed © Switzerland Tourism/ Silvano Zeiter
Discover more spectacular winter experiences throughout Switzerland on MySwitzerland.com/winter Visit this website in English to plan your perfect trip in Switzerland: MySwitzerland.com/expats For more travel info and tips throughout Switzerland, please get in touch with expats@switzerland.com or phone 0800 100 200 TRAVEL INSPIRATION
7
WIN A VOUCHER FOR TWO NIGHTS FOR TWO AT THE STYLISH ERMITAGE WELLNESS- & SPA-HOTEL Hello Switzerland brings you this exclusive opportunity, together with the ERMITAGE Wellness- & Spa-Hotel and Switzerland Tourism. The ERMITAGE Wellness- & Spa-Hotel is located on the sunny Schönried plateau above Gstaad, surrounded by lush forests and offering breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps. It is one of the top wellness- & spa-hotels in Switzerland. Its beautiful outdoor and indoor solar pools as well as the 10 saunas and steam baths offer a great variety and space to completely unwind.
What’s included Two nights for two people, in the ‘Gstaad’ Junior-Suite, a 25-minute vitality massage per person, including access to the most modern wellness oasis in the Bernese Oberland, spread across 3,700 sqm, a taste of the fabulous ERMITAGE cuisine (amazing breakfast, lunch salad & soup), as well as an ERMITAGE dinner (excluding beverages).
Availability The voucher is valid 1 year after being issued and subject to availability. It cannot be claimed until 7 March 2022, between 1 and 14 May 2022, and between 22 December 2022 and 6 March 2023.
How to register Visit helloswitzerland.ch/offers and follow the steps.
Registration deadline Make sure to register by 31 December, 10am. The winner will be randomly chosen on 4 January and we’ll announce his or her name in our newsletter and on our Facebook page.
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TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Hello d rlan Switze sive Exclu ition et Comp
TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS Here is our selection for the top Christmas markets throughout Switzerland. Before you get ready to enjoy your glühwein or vin chaud, please check the current COVID-19 requirements and if a green certificate is necessary. 18 November – 31 December
Lausanne
Bô Noël is more than a Christmas market: it is the place to meet for all locals after work and it’s also where a lot of exciting events will happen, like the Christmas run or the spectacular Light Festival. Read more on page 12.
bit.ly/HelloBoNoel2021 19 November – 24 December
Montreux
This is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland. A big Ferris wheel, children’s workshops, the additional site in the town of Caux above Montreux and Santa’s house atop Rochers de Naye make it a very special Christmas destination.
bit.ly/HelloMontreux Noël2021 25 November – 23 December
Basel
Christmas in Basel © Basel Tourism
Barfüsserplatz & Münsterplatz are the places to be in Basel, from the end of November all through 23 December. The markets are open daily from 11:00 to 20:30. This large market stretches over two squares in the city center and is considered to be one of the prettiest in Switzerland – recently also voted as the best Christmas market in Europe! Read more on the next page.
bit.ly/HelloBaselXmas2021 25 November – 24 December
Zurich
Starting with the end of November through to 24 December, the main 10
Christmas in Lausanne © Lausanne Tourism
train station in Zürich lights up to welcome the largest indoors Christmas market in Europe, Christkindlimarkt. Among the various Christmas markets in Zürich, this is the most central. The scent of mulled wine and cinnamon make people skip their connecting trains to stroll around the stalls under the spectacular Christmas tree decorated with thousands of Swarovski crystals. It’s a feast for the eyes.
bit.ly/HelloZurichXmas2021
26 – 27 November & 3 – 5 December
Kambly, Emmental
The famous biscuit factory in Emmental holds a lovely Christmas market with plenty of goodies and exquisite handmade crafts. Don’t miss the charming Lantern Trail along the river.
bit.ly/HelloKambly2021
1 December – 2 January
Stein am Rhein, Schaffhausen Every December, this well-preserved medieval town turns into a magical place. A canopy of lights over the Rhine bridge, the illuminated castle and lovingly decorated shop windows delight visitors of all ages. A carousel, Santa Claus with his ponies, storytellers and trips on a miniature steam railway wow the young.
bit.ly/HelloFairyXmas2021 10 - 12 December
Murten, Fribourg The old city of Murten/Morat provides an enchanting backdrop for the Christmas market. Beautifully decorated wooden chalets, and a sea of lights from both candles and lamps transport you from everyday life. Tasty, regional specialties and handcrafted products create is an unforgettable experience for the entire family!
bit.ly/HelloMurtenXmas2021
Best Christmas Market in Europe 2021 Provided by: Basel Tourism • Photos: © Basel Tourism
It’s official, Basel is not only the best Christmas market in Switzerland, it’s also been selected as the Best Christmas market in Europe for 2021. Between 25 November and 23 December, you can admire it too, every day, between 11am and 8:30pm. Ready to get in the Christmas spirit? Then Basel’s annual Christmas market is your best bet. Festive decorations, towering Christmas trees and dozens of wooden chalets transform Basel’s old town into a winter paradise. Basel’s Christmas market is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland, offering great attractions for young and old alike. Nestled in the beautiful old town, this picturesque Christmas market extends from Barfüsserplatz up to the historic cathedral on Münsterplatz and offers everything your heart desires. Throughout the market, you’ll find diverse, regional products and culinary delights. Offerings range from handmade candles and Christmas decorations to beautiful leather goods, children’s toys and seasonal hats. You’ll also find an array of
culinary delights including fresh waffles, delicious mugs of mulled wine, roasted almonds, fine Swiss raclette and salmon. Special surprises await the small visitors of the Basel Christmas too: WiehnachtsDrämmli (the Christmas Tram), Wiehnachtsfähri (the Christmas ferry) and the Palazzo Colombino with a special show put on by Cirque Noel de Bâle. Check out the latest events and happenings at and around the Basel Christmas market on basel.com/christmas and have a lovely time in Basel.
Basel Christmas Magic Tour Learn all about old and new Advent customs, on this tour - you’re bound to discover some fascinating Christmas traditions. Tours in English available on 4 and 18 December. Book on: basel.com/christmasmagic
Basel Christmas Special Enjoy the best of Basel during Christmas time with this great offer: for every overnight stay in Basel, you get one BaselCard per person and a gift voucher worth CHF 50.00 per room. The voucher can be redeemed in around 425 shops, restaurants and cultural institutions in the Basel city centre, and is valid for 10 years. Enjoy the magic of Basel at Christmas! Book on: basel.com/christmas-special
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LAUSANNE BÔ NOËL A Christmas market that’s both fun and magical Provided by: Lausanne Tourism • Photos: © Lausanne Tourism
Starting with 18 November and all through 31 December, you can get in the Christmas spirit thanks to the Lausanne Bô Noël Christmas market. Bô Noël is not just a Christmas market, but the locals’ top meeting point at Christmas time. Join them on cold winter nights over vin chaud and great conversation. Find out the highlights and some unmissable places and events at Bô Noël. 1. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city and either choose the Apéro or Fondue mode 2. Admire the gorgeous Lausanne Light Festival between 24 November – 24 December 3. Dance your heart out at the giant Silent Disco on New Year’s Eve, just as the Christmas market closes on 31 December 4. Discover the large Saint-François market and its two giant tents 5. If you’re looking for unique handmade gifts, look for the Marché des créateurs – Pépinet. You won’t be disappointed. 6. In the mood for something astonishing? Check out the Vaud igloo in Marché du terroir de l’Europe. 7. For kids there’s plenty of fun things to do. Enjoy the Ferris Wheel in Place Centrale and the animal farm, storytelling yurt and pony rides around the Cathedral – all in the Cité Children’s Village. 8. The Lausanne night-time Christmas run: be in Place de la Riponne on Saturday, 11 December either to run or to admire the crazy outfits of the runners. 9. New this year: The Bel-Air terrace with its new Mondial de la Fondue space, its new Vaud Youth bar “L’Embuscade” and two escape games in a chalet. Find out more on lausanne-tourisme.ch/en/ unmissable-events-in-winter
HOMEMADE MULLED WINE IN 3 EASY STEPS Smells like Christmas A hot mug of mulled wine (Glühwein or vin chaud) is the perfect thing to warm you up at the Christmas market. But it is also simple to make at home and a festive way to entertain friends. There are many variations and secret family recipes for making Glühwein. Have fun experimenting with the ingredients to find a combination that perfectly suits your tastes.
Hello Switzerland’s Glühwein recipe WHAT YOU NEED: • 1 bottle red wine • ½ orange, cut into slices • ½ lemon, cut into slices • Fresh orange and lemon juice (about ¼ - ½ cup) squeezed from remaining unsliced fruit • 4tbsp sugar • 6 cloves – Some recipes also call for allspice, star anise, nutmeg, cardamom, or fresh ginger. What is your favorite variation? • 2 cinnamon sticks • Orange or lemon slices to decorate the mugs • Optional: If you want to kick it up a notch, add a splash (or two!) of kirsch, brandy, rum or triple sec.
WHAT TO DO: • STEP ONE Add juice, fruit, sugar and spices to a large saucepan. Simmer until the sugar is dissolved. • STEP TWO Pour in the wine and optional extra alcohol and heat at medium temperature. Be careful not to let it boil! • STEP THREE Strain the wine into a bowl. Serve hot, decorated with slices of lemon or orange.
Enjoy with friends!
13
FE AT UR ED PAR TNER : HE A LT H
CARDIOLOGY: TO THE MATTER OF THE HEART Provided by: Hirslanden
Every year, more than 10,000 cardiology and heart-surgery patients entrust their health to us. As a leading Swiss healthcare provider, the Hirslanden Group focuses on integrated medical care along the entire life cycle, or what is known as the continuum of care. This involves prevention, counselling, medical diagnostics, therapy and after-care: Hirslanden organises seamless medical treatment over the entire medical spectrum of cardiology.
Cardiology preventive check-up A cardiological check involves a comprehensive examination of the heart, based on the latest medical findings. The cardiological preventive health check-up includes: • Resting ECG • Stress ECG • Echocardiography (transthoracic/ through the ribcage) • Blood test Additional examinations are possible and will include: echocardiography (transoesophageal/via the oesophagus), Holter ECG (24 h), 24-hour blood pressure measurement or pacemaker enquiry.
Precise Cardio Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in our industrialised world. Until recently, research and clinical practice have concentrated on the identification and management of risk factors. In the future however, focus will primarily be on the disease-specific cause and
its explanation on the basis of the genetic background and environmental factors. Cardiogenetics, research into human genetic material to identify gene variants that are important for clinical heart medicine, has developed significantly.
State-of-the-art infrastructure for cardiological treatment The cardiology department of the Hirslanden Clinic in Zurich is the first Swiss location to operate the latest generation of the Philips Azurion therapy platform, a state-of-the-art cardiac catheter workstation for the treatment of patients with heart disease.
Our state-of-the-art infrastructure, with fully equipped cardiac catheter laboratories and highly trained specialist staff, enable Hirslanden to offer innovative treatment methods. We offer highly complex surgical procedures using minimally invasive operations to treat mitral valve insufficiency, atrial fibrillation and many other heart conditions. Our patients benefit from an extremely high surgical success rate.
Cardiovascular rehabilitation (after-care) Rehabilitation is an important part of the healthcare system that can be carried out in inpatient and outpatient settings.
GET FIRST-CLASS MEDICAL CARE With 17 top-class hospitals throughout Switzerland and a network of over 2,800 specialized doctors, Hirslanden is the largest private hospital group in Switzerland. When you are a patient at Hirslanden, you can be confident that every possible avenue will be explored and discussed, and that you will receive the best possible treatment for your condition. Call +41 44 388 75 75 to get more information, an individual cost estimate and to book an appointment.
Living
Get first-class medical care Contact Hirslanden‘s special team for international people
14
helloswitzerland.ch/offers
FIRST-CLASS MEDICAL CARE IN SWITZERLAND When you need to see a specialist doctor, Hirslanden has set up a dedicated team to support foreigners in Switzerland. Get in touch with Hirslanden to get fast access to highly experienced specialist doctors from various disciplines, from oncology to plastic surgery or fertility treatment. Your health is in the best of hands at Hirslanden.
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+41 44 388 75 75 hirslanden.com/international 15
EVENTS
EVENTS
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THE ULTIMATE SWISS GIFT GUIDE Your inspiration for great gifts this season With some help from our Hello Switzerland Facebook community, we’ll inspire you to go beyond Swiss chocolate and find some exciting gifts for Christmas that are typically Swiss as well as unique. Swiss Journey board game Time to cosy up with your loved ones and discover Switzerland the fast and fun way. Allow us to introduce ‘Schweizer Reise’ (Swiss Journey), a wonderful family game from Carlit. You’ll hop over valleys, cross mountain peaks, and walk in the footsteps of many other people discovering the most beloved Swiss destinations. It’s the Christmas gift that checks all the right boxes. Find it here: bit.ly/HelloSwissJourney
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EVENTS
December 2021 - March 2022
As more and more events are starting to happen, we see people divided into two extremes: the ‘Let’s party!’ type and the more cautious ‘Maybe not just yet’. As always, we’re fans of the middle ground. A good mask, a green certificate and some healthy social distance will go a long way. With that in mind, let’s have a look at the events scheduled for the end of 2021 and start of 2022. We have checked all events prior to print, but changes may happen – for this we apologize, but please be aware that this is beyond our control. 10 – 23 December
Up to 23 January
Magic Forest Festival
Pissarro at Kunstmuseum Basel
Lenzerheide
Basel
The ‘Magic Forest’ in Lenzerheide is a festival under the open sky which combines light art, music, culinary and a Christmas market. The light installations in the forest make this a unique experience.
Meet the ‘Father of Impressionism’, Camille Pissarro (1830-1903) thanks to this comprehensive exhibition at Kunstmuseum Basel you can visit only until 23 January 2022. The exhibition offers an overview of Pissarro’s works and focuses on his collaborative relationships with his contemporaries. As a friend and mentor, Pissarro was in close contact with artists of several generations, including Cézanne, Monet, Gauguin, Degas, and Mary Cassatt. A rare treat for Impressionism fans.
bit.ly/HelloZauberwald2021 22 – 30 January
International Hot Air Balloon Festival Chateau d’Oex
Every year at the end of January, the International Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place in a small village in Vaud which offers perfect flying conditions for these graceful aeronautical elephants.
bit.ly/HelloBalloons2021 Up to 23 January
Goya at Fondation Beyeler Basel
You have the chance to see up close at Fondation Beyeler one of the most important exhibitions ever devoted to Francisco de Goya (1746–1828) outside of Spain. A fascinating artist and an outstanding figure of the Romantic movement, Goya painted saints and criminals, witches and demons, pushing open the gate to realms that do not differentiate between reality and fantasy. In his art, Goya is a keen observer of the drama of reason and irrationality, of dreams and nightmares.
bit.ly/HelloGoya2022
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bit.ly/HelloPissarro2022 28 January – 5 February
Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad Gstaad
For nine days, concerts will be held at the churches in Saanen and Rougemont as well as in the chapel of Gstaad. Considered as the musical highlight of the winter season in the Gstaad region, its success is based on an ambitious programme which promotes the exchange between young talents and internationally established artists.
Camille Pissarro, Woman wearing a green headscarf (1893) © RMN – Grand Palais – Franck Raux
bit.ly/HelloSommets2022
bit.ly/HelloSnowsoccer2022
26 February
26 - 27 March
Freestyleshow Sörenberg
Freestyleshow is a spectacular show with top athletes. Freestyle skiing, snowboard, Telemark, snow bicycles – demonstrations are top notch!
bit.ly/HelloFreestyle2022
12 March
Snow Soccer Nendaz
Former professional players, such as French champion Djibril Cissé, will be playing on the frozen lake of Tracouet at an altitude of 2,171 metres.
Whitestyle Mürren
Hot jumps on the big air kicker and a spectacular finale under the night sky. All in one of the most beautiful Swiss villages, Mürren.
bit.ly/HelloWhitestyle2022
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Living
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19
FE AT UR ED PAR TNER : MOBIL I T Y
CARVOLUTION CAR SUBSCRIPTION Expats all over Switzerland love Carvolution. Here’s why more and more decide to drive a car on a subscription. Provided by: Léa Miggiano, Carvolution Co-founder
Dezso, originally from Hungary “I don’t have to worry about insurance or tires” - Dezso moved to Switzerland in June and couldn’t be more satisfied with his car from Carvolution. In our conversation, he tells us how he came to Carvolution, where he sees the advantages and to whom he recommends Carvolution. Dezso, how did you find out about Carvolution? When I moved to Switzerland Packimpex helped me get settled. I needed a vehicle for my work and they introduced me to Carvolution.
Did you consider other options than the subscription? Yes, I looked into it, but the Carvolution car subscription was by far the most suitable.
How has Carvolution made your life easier? I don’t have to worry about insurance, tires or even storage. Carvolution’s car subscription is super convenient, the service is super fast and easy to understand. It takes the hassle out of car ownership.
What convinced you about Carvolution’s car subscription? From the beginning, the communication was very clear and the overall service around the car convinced me. Also, the people at Carvolution are very dynamic and you can feel that as a customer, which gives me a good feeling.
How well did the booking process go? In one word: smoothly. It’s simple and clear. I chose my kilometer package, my duration, my deductible and canton of residence. After that I picked my car up in Bannwil.
Which car did you choose? My wife and I drive a Ford Puma and 20
MOBILIT Y
we’re very happy with it. It brings us safely to our destination. I wanted a car that was practical and big, because I’m quite tall.
Do you use the app? Yes, the app is very useful. It tells us how many kilometers we’ve already driven and I even can adjust the
kilometre package directly in the app.
Who would you recommend Carvolution to? I would recommend Carvolution to anyone who values their free time. The all-inclusive service is very convenient and the people at Carvolution are very friendly.
WHAT IS CARVOLUTION?
Carvolution is the most popular car subscription provider in Switzerland and offers around 40 models of various brands. Carvolution brings a unique customer experience and highly attractive prices. You can select your car and subscription type online: choose the car you like, choose the contract duration, customize the kilometer package and pick your deductible. The fixed monthly price includes everything that’s car related. You don’t have to worry about insurance, taxes, license plates, service or tires. It’s the simple alternative to buying or leasing a car. Your Carvolution subscription can be managed via the app, your kilometer package can be adjusted monthly and you can report any damages with just a few clicks. Now isn’t that easy?
Abby, originally from the US Abby moved with her family from Vienna, Austria to Switzerland for work purposes. She is originally from the United States but she loves living in Switzerland. In this interview, she talks about her experience with Carvolution and how it has made her expat life easier. Abby, how did you find out about Carvolution? We knew we needed a second car while living in Switzerland because my husband and I both work and we need the flexibility. Our relocation consultant mentioned Carvolution as an option for our family.
Have you considered other options than the car subscription? Yes, we looked at other companies where we could have the opportunity to rent or purchase a vehicle.
What convinced you about Carvolution’s car subscription? Carvolution is a very simple solution. As a customer, I had the flexibility to test drive vehicles that interested me, decide what contract was best for my situation and could walk away knowing that my insurance, maintenance, and tires would be taken care of within the contract.
What car have you chosen? BMW x1 hybrid. I wanted something small yet with enough space for my kids. The hybrid feature gives me flexibility to drive on all electric or gas when needed.
Have you changed your car yet? No, because I was able to test drive it, I chose a perfect vehicle for my needs!
In what way is life with Carvolution easier? Carvolution is a One Stop Shop!
What do you like in particular? Their team was very hospitable and accommodating.
Who would you recommend Carvolution to? I would recommend it to any expat who is in need of a car and doesn’t want to go through the hassle of trying to lease or purchase from an actual dealership.
GET YOUR CARVOLUTION SUBSCRIPTION
Léa Miggiano, Carvolution Co-founder, and her team are here to assist you in finding the most convenient car for your mobility needs.
What do you need your car for? Everyday living
Living
Get an all-inclusive car subscription Enjoy CHF 50 off your new car from Carvolution
helloswitzerland.ch/offers
LIVING MOBILIT IN ST YLE Y
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FE AT URED PAR TNER : RELOC AT ION
LEAVING SWITZERLAND Smooth sailing with Departure Support
Provided by: Packimpex
Are you planning to leave Switzerland in the near future? Here’s what to expect and how to make your departure smoother. Leaving Switzerland means more than packing your bags and waving goodbye. And we’ll show you how to prepare for it.
The hurdles of leaving Switzerland Ending utilities and insurance contracts, handling the end cleaning of your apartment, selling your vehicle, deregistering from schools and other authorities – all these steps must be done at the right time and in the right order.
How to tackle all departure formalities Start by checking all your contracts for cancellation terms and methodically cancel them all. Don’t forget to deregister from the local authorities – most people tend to leave this aside. Your lease also needs to be terminated and your home handed over – plan this in detail and find out what your rights as a tenant are, to make sure you get your rental deposit back.
Smooth sailing with our Departure Support Packimpex has nearly 45 years of relocation experience and has helped more than 8,000 customers leave their homes with peace of mind in the last 10 years alone. When you book our Departure Support, this will make a world of difference, especially if you don’t speak the local Swiss language or if you
don’t know Swiss tenancy law. What this means is that a Packimpex Relocation Consultant will coordinate the different steps of your departure and provide support at all necessary steps, from terminating your lease, to finding new tenants or coordinating repairs, even once you’ve left the country. Our team will make sure that the exit inspection of your apartment is handled in a fair manner and in line with Swiss lease standards, to minimize your chances of being held accountable for damage to the property. Having an expert on your side ensures you save time on the process and avoid unnecessary costs. A relocation consultant will act as your advocate and negotiate on your behalf and in your best interest. Packimpex relocation experts will handle any aspect of your departure from Switzerland, eliminate language barriers
and, most importantly, guide you past potential pitfalls.
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GET CONNECTED WITH DEPARTURE SUPPORT EXPERTS Martijn ter Hart and his team are here to support you with every aspect related to your departure from Switzerland. With a relocation expert by your side, you’ll be sure to leave no loose ends behind.
Leaving
Leave Switzerland hassle free Get more info on Packimpex Departure Support
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LIVING IN ST YLE
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Living
Immigration Case Assessment at CHF 99 Would you like to know if your parents can live with you in Switzerland? If your nanny can come over from your home country? Or if your partner can join you in Switzerland even though you are not married? You can now get fast answers to all questions related to immigration to Switzerland from the immigration specialists at Sgier+Partner. Book an Immigration Case Assessment for CHF 99 and get answers to all your questions on family reunion or immigration of unmarried partners.
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Living
Tax Support for International Residents Per Melberg, Managing Partner of Exactio Ltd and the Exactio team have decades of experience in global mobility and international tax. Do you need help filing your tax return? Or do you simply Per Helberg have questions regarding the Swiss social security and pension system? Get in touch with expert tax advisers who specialize in the complex situation of international residents in Switzerland. helloswitzerland.ch/offers
FE AT URED PAR TNER : HE A LT H INSUR A NCE
LET SWICA TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE NEEDS Choose Switzerland’s Number 1 Health Insurer Provided by: SWICA
It can be complicated to choose the best health insurance as an expat, especially when you’re not 100% fluent in the language of the canton you live in. SWICA makes it easier for you. Is there a way to make sure you choose the right insurance plan? Can you navigate the intricacies of a complex system without speaking the language? Will you be able to benefit from your insurance to the fullest, in the long run? The answer is a resounding YES to all of the above. Provided you work with the right health insurer. Find out what your benefits are when you choose SWICA as your health insurer.
Low co-payments
Designed for expats
You’ll be happy to know SWICA supports alternative therapy methods and puts them on an equal footing with conventional ones.
From the moment you contact SWICA you’ll have an expert team in your corner. SWICA offers English support and presentations of services, so you will never again feel lost trying to understand legal terms in a language you are not familiar with.
Generous contributions for health promotion and preventive healthcare At SWICA, contributions towards health promotion and preventive healthcare (that means for exercise and well-being) are up to CHF 800/year.* You can also choose between a wide range of fitness centres and selected sports associations, courses and personal trainings.
SWICA is one of the very few health insurers applying co-payments from basic insurance to those from SWICA supplementary insurance. This means that your maximum annual co-payments will be much lower when compared to other health insurers.
Equal consideration of conventional & complementary medicine
Complete online services Do you dread bureaucracy? So do we! That’s why at SWICA you can use a range of online services, from the comfort of your own home or when you are out on the go. The mySWICA platform allows you to access your latest benefit/premium statements, submit invoices, view the balance on your excess, or contact SWICA customer services. Not only that, SWICA also offers innovative telemedicine options for self-diagnosis that will make your life so much easier:
• SWICA’s BENECURA app, the first medical app of a health insurer in Switzerland, allows you to check your symptoms, prepare for a doctor’s appointment, or safely store your documents. • TytoHome, the state-of-the-art device for self-examination, is an innovative device which allows you to carry out seven medical exams by yourself, wherever you are, and then share and discuss the results with santé24 healthcare experts and doctors. GET THE BEST HEALTH INSURANCE SWICA has achieved top rankings in health insurance comparisons for over 10 years. As a top Swiss health insurer with outstanding customer satisfaction, SWICA offers generous contributions for health promotion and preventive healthcare, low co-payments, and equal consideration of conventional and complementary medicine.
*More details on the contribution on swica.ch/fitness.
Living
Request a quote from SWICA Get advice from the best health insurer in Switzerland
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LIVING EDUCATION IN ST YLE
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9 TOP IDEAS FOR SKI-SHY FOLKS Depart from the mainstream Provided by: Hello Switzerland
If you’re not strapping on a pair of skis, then there are countless fun and exciting winter activities that won’t involve you being stranded at a café at the bottom of the ski run and stuck behind a book as you sip on hot chocolate all day. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that!). 1. Go on a winter hike with snowshoes One of the very best ways to get outdoors in winter is also one of the easiest to do: Snowshoeing. Most ski resorts have marked trails, and snowshoes can be rented at local ski shops. We’ve already included in our magazine an excellent guided tour of the UNESCO heritage site Aletsch Glacier in canton Valais. Have a look at page 6).
2. Savour the view The Salève plateau, called the ‘Balcony of Geneva’, offers extraordinary panoramic views of the area in winter. There’s a cable car on the weekends, but why not hike up instead? Free guided hikes on the Salève are offered all year round every Sunday by the Association Genevoise des Amis du Salève.
3. Learn curling What could be more Swiss than curling? Find out where your local curling center is and register for a class.
4. Relax in an outdoor thermal spa Spas with outdoor thermal pools are one of the best ways to enjoy panoramic views. Family and friends who’ve been skiing can join you there when they get off the slopes. For example, there’s Leukerbad, in Valais, with 30 different thermal baths from which to choose and we have more suggestions on page 28 of our magazine.
5. Go eskimo and sleep in an igloo Make an igloo. Feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with building
your own house in a single day and learn a few snow survival skills in the process. You can also spend an exciting night in the mountains in one of Switzerland’s igloo-villages (some of them even have a whirlpool!).
6. Drive a dog pulled sled If building an igloo seems too tame, why not learn to drive a dog sled? The Vallée Verte area also boasts lessons in dog sledding.
7. Brr…a winter swim!!! A genuine local winter activity that is not for the faint of heart is training for winter swimming in Lake Geneva. Starting in October, intrepid swimmers meet on Sundays at 10am at the Rotonde des Bainsdes-Pâquis to prepare for the Coupe de Noël in December. Warm up afterwards in the saunas at the Bain-desPâquis, which are open all winter.
8. Visit a glacier Visit a glacier and experience these beautiful and disappearing wonders. Make your own list and see how many you can view this season.
9. Learn animal tracking Find out what all those prints in the snow mean, and about the animals that share the mountains and forests with us. Learn animal tracking in the snow! Courses available at LaLibellule in Geneva.
And, when all else fails, put on your mittens, grab a few friends, head to the nearest park and start an epic snowball fight! More on helloswitzerland.ch/winter
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ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR OWN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT? Here’s how ‘Women Back to Business’ can help Provided by: Dr. Patricia Widmer, Programme Director Open Enrolment and Diversity “Women Back to Business” at the University of St.Gallen. There, in addition to acquiring exciting management expertise, I also received coaching, where I was able to work on my self-confidence and learn how to position and sell myself better. I even managed to build on my previous career and find employment at a private bank. Later I changed my profession, and now I am programme director for diversity and management programmes. It gives me great satisfaction to support women who want to restart their careers or reposition themselves professionally – just like I did.
NEXT INFO EVENT Dr. Patricia Widmer wanted to combine career and her family. She tells us here how she did it and what challenges she faced. Do you know the feeling of bitter disappointment, when you are deeply convinced of something and reality proves you wrong? I do! Career and family – these two things run parallel for me; I was convinced of that. After starting my family, I wanted to gradually start back to work again, so I reduced my full-time position in a bank as Client Relationship Manager to a part-time workload for a few months. However, after gradually being put on the professional sidetrack, I decided to quit my job. Today I wonder, though, if I should have fought more back then.
Bye bye Switzerland Then an exciting opportunity opened 28
EDUCATION
up: my husband was able to gain a professional foothold in the U.S. We spent a total of seven years abroad before returning to Switzerland. During this time, I was almost exclusively at home with my family, because I didn’t have a work visa in the U.S. However, I was able to gain some great experience through parttime positions in volunteer work. The adventure came to an end, when we returned to Switzerland, where I happily settled back in. Well, not quite! I felt the need to work again. This wish didn’t seem to be easy to fulfill, even though I had a good network and a great supportive environment. But this time I was going to fight for it, also in order to be a good role-model for my children.
11 January 2022 es.unisg.ch/wbb
IS “WOMEN BACK TO BUSINESS” FOR YOU? - One-year management training for women with university or university of applied sciences degrees - Modular structure: Core and elective modules (individual modules can be booked), individual career consulting and mentoring. - Close cooperation with renowned companies in Switzerland and with the online recruiter “Lionstep”
Back to Business My goal: my situation had to change! I spontaneously decided to register for the advanced studies programme
es.unisg.ch/wbb
Learn a new language. Open your world.
Sign up for effective language training with Berlitz: • Flexible learning options • Highly effective Berlitz Method® • TELC and FIDE certifications available
Hello Switzerland Exclusive Deal 5% off language courses
• Unique online platform, the Berlitz Virtual Classroom®
• Free and accurate language test
Living
Boost your language skills Sign up for effective language training at Berlitz
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TRAVEL INSPIRATION
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FEATURED PARTNER: INSURANCE
PLAN, SAVE & BUY PROPERTY IN SWITZERLAND Learn how from a Helvetia insurance expert Provided by: Helvetia
Are you planning to buy property in Switzerland? For most foreigners living here, this is a painful topic. The high property purchase price, the complex mortgage system, the limited availability – and your list of hurdles doesn’t stop here. Helvetia sheds some light on the topic and adds some expert tips.
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First of all, can foreigners buy property in Switzerland?
How do mortgages work in Switzerland?
If you have a valid residence B permit, you may acquire property or an existing building for your own use. If you have a C permit for Switzerland, you may buy more than one plot of land for residential use or real estate of any kind without special authorization.
The bank finances a maximum of 80% of the market value of the property. You have to contribute at least 20% of the purchase price. At least half of that amount must be your own funds and not taken from your employee benefits insurance.
FINANCIAL ADVICE
Mortgage financing is divided into a first mortgage and a second mortgage. The first mortgage can cover up to a maximum of 66% of the purchase price. If you need more financing, then you’ll need to take out a second mortgage. The second mortgage must be repaid in regular instalments over a maximum of 15 years before you reach the age of 65.
Do you know which funds to use for your 20% contribution?
What you’ll learn in this free consultation:
You’ll be happy to know that the list is generous. The funds you are allowed to use for your 20% can mean savings and securities holdings, pension capital, life insurance, gifts, or inheritance advancements. Presumably, the most significant contribution, will come from your Pillar 2 pension. But then - how can you make sure you still have a decent pension afterwards?
• Understand how to save towards property purchase as well as how to leverage your pension savings or insurance policies to buy property in Switzerland • Get an explanation of how mortgages work in Switzerland and understand the impact of property purchase on pension, savings and tax burden, including how you can reduce your tax burden by property purchase • Get a detailed consultation on the Swiss Pension and Social Security System and how to save for old age, including 3rd pillar pension system, savings, and survivor income protection • Check for gaps in your insurance coverage in case your life circumstances have changed and update insurance policies accordingly • Review your investments, tax benefits, inheritance situation, pension savings options with pillars 3a and 3b, funds account, and mortgage • Review your health insurance situation and get a better understanding of additional coverage
What is affordability and how is it calculated? Affordability is quite a simple calculation of your income versus the property costs. As a basic rule to estimate affordability, the cost of the property should not exceed one third of the borrower’s gross income. Let’s see what that means more in detail. In order to guarantee affordability, your total living expenses (mortgage interest, repayments, maintenance, and ancillary costs) should not exceed one-third of your gross income. Many financial institutions use a theoretical rate of 5% to calculate the mortgage interest to ensure that the mortgage would still be affordable if interest rates were to rise. Yearly maintenance and ancillary costs such as utilities, insurance, and minor repairs, are then added to this at a general annual rate of 1% of the market value.
Learn how to plan, save & buy property with this free consultation If you’re looking for guidance and advice before you buy property in Switzerland, then this free consultation from Helvetia is for you. A Helvetia insurance expert will explain in detail everything about mortgages and how to save to buy, answering all your questions.
Why work with Helvetia? Helvetia is Hello Switzerland’s partner of choice for all insurance related issues. Helvetia’s expert advisers deal with international professionals on a regular basis regarding property searches, financing, protection and much more. On the issue of property financing, Helvetia works closely with the leading specialist for mortgages and real estate in Switzerland, MoneyPark. You will appreciate their personal touch and high level of experience in dealing with the most common issues that international residents encounter in Switzerland.
When you choose Helvetia, you’ll enjoy excellent support and documentation in English, in-depth knowledge of expat needs, consultancy on all insurance types, and an excellent claims service. Helvetia is well-known in Switzerland for their ultra-fast claim response. Most claims are usually covered within 48 hours, which is a great relief if you are in a tricky situation or far from home.
GET CONNECTED WITH SPECIALIZED INSURANCE ADVISERS FOR EXPATS:
MICHAEL METRY
MARCUS G. SENN
Michael Metry and Markus G. Senn are part of the experienced team of advisors at Helvetia Insurance, covering the entire Switzerland. They specialize in specific savings plans (such as third pillar - unit linked plans, fund accounts or income protection) and on the pension needs of newcomers to Switzerland. In addition to personal retirement planning, they offer comprehensive advice and support in a variety of areas connected to a move to Switzerland. Helvetia is a top Swiss insurance company providing reliable coverage for nearly 1.3 million residents in Switzerland. They are known as a trustworthy, reliable and innovative insurance provider.
Living
Request a free consultation Learn from Helvetia how to plan, save & buy property
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FINANCIAL ADVICE
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