Hello Switzerland Issue 1/2019 by Hello Switzerland AG

issue 1/2019 helloswitzerland.com

URBAN ART BASEL HIKING ON JACOB’S TRAIL

ber one The num ge and knowled source ion inspirat erland’s z for Swit tional interna ity n commu

TOP 5 SPRING MUST DO’S TOP EVENTS DEALS & OFFERS

SEE PAGES 16-17

The adventure of a lifetime THIS IS HELLO SWITZERLAND

DISCOVER SWITZERLAND

PLAN YOUR RELOCATION

Go to www.helloswitzerland.ch for leisure and culture, what’s on and practical guides.

Get connected with local experts and schedule a free consultation.

Dear readers, Get ready for a fresh start of spring, with our awesome tips: see the beautiful daffodil fields in Montreux or the blooming cherry trees in Zug, go hiking on spectacular mountain routes, discover interesting Swiss spring traditions like the Sechseläuten. Happy trails! Irina Ghita, Editor

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Cover image: Philipp Brogli on his Urban Art tour ©Switzerland Tourism

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A GUIDE TO BASEL’S SPECTACULAR URBAN ART Get to know the most creative city in Switzerland Home of the prestigious Art Basel exhibition which gathers top artists from all over the world, and to exquisite art museums (Kunstmuseum Basel, Fondation Beyeler and Museum Tinguely), Basel simply breathes creativity and culture. What is unique about this bustling industrial city is that art is not confined to museums and galleries. You can see it all over the city, right out there on the streets. And Philipp Brogli is the man who knows where to find it. Philipp Brogli is an art promoter and curator who shares his passion for street art with a series of brand new, outof-the-box tours. His ‘Urban Art’ tours are meant to show you the best street art hotspots of Basel, discover world famous artists like Invader or TIKA and learn to value street art for what it truly is, an attempt to give meaning and to own the urban space that surrounds us. Photo credits ©Switzerland Tourism

TRAVEL INSPIRATION

Why the ‘Urban Art Experience’ Tour is a special experience One might call this a complete tour of Basel, as it encompasses so many things in such a short time frame: in addition to exploring urban art hotspots, you get to be driven around in style in a Bentley like no other, one that is covered in graffiti. Stroll through the city of Basel, from obscure street corners to industrial landscapes and, in summer only – get to indulge in the local’s favorite summer activity, floating on the river Rhine. This tour will have you explore the hip parts of Basel in style.

For more off the beaten path ideas that will show you Switzerland like you have never seen it before, visit MySwitzerland.com/expats or get in touch at expats@switzerland.com or 0800 100 200 For more specific information on this street art tour, the ‘Urban Art Experience’, visit and book using this website: www.basel.com/en/urban-art TRAVEL INSPIRATION

SPRING IN SWITZERLAND Top 5 things to see and do Spring is an interesting concept in Switzerland given the abundance of snow until mid-April and the fact that people seem to be in a perpetual ski mode. However, for those of you who are prepared to move away from the ski slopes, here is how to get your spring mood on. 4. Explore quintessential Switzerland by train There’s no better way to admire the Swiss Alps at high altitudes. Our tip: The Glacier Express travels from St. Moritz to Zermatt via Davos in an 8h ride that offers dramatic views over the Albula Valley the spectacular Rhine gorge and culminating with the Matterhorn in Zermatt. bit.ly/HelloGlacierExpress

1. Admire nature in full bloom Nature lovers, rejoice! There is an abundance of magical places where you can admire the loveliest of spring flowers in full bloom. From krokus to daffodil fields and cherry trees as far as the eye can see, Switzerland in full bloom is a rare site. Our tip: The daffodil fields at Les Pleiades (around Lake Geneva, between Vevey and Blonay). bit.ly/HelloDaffodils

2. Get to know fantastic Swiss traditions

5. Taste the best of Switzerland From haute cuisine to hearty traditional food served in charming mountain huts, Switzerland has a lot to offer. Our tip: Take the ‘Taste my Swiss City’ tour and discover the taste of Swiss cities based on a local’s recommendation. Having been in one such tour, we must say we absolutely loved it: it’s a cool way to discover unique places in the city and you also receive ‘the special treatment’ - in some cases, you sample foods that have been created for this tour. bit.ly/HelloTasteMySwissCity

Swiss customs and traditions are highly valued all over Switzerland. Check our Event calendar and explore Easter and spring customs. Our tip: Sechseläuten is huge in Zurich and for good reason. It is a spectacular show which enlivens the entire city. bit.ly/HelloSechseläuten

3. Go hiking With perfectly marked and safe paths, hiking is a pleasure all over Switzerland. Our tip: The Allondon Nature reserve is a hidden gem in the Geneva area with some rare species of birds and plants. bit.ly/HelloAllondonHike

LIVINGLIVING WELL IN SWITZERLAND

FEATURED PARTNER: TAX CONSULTING

RELIABLE TAX SUPPORT Are you required to handle your annual taxes by yourself? Has your employer stopped paying for your tax support? Are you searching for alternatives to your current tax accountant? Do you need a tax accountant that understands your Swiss and/ or your international situation? Gordana Muggler and her team of tax specialists at BDO are here to help Perhaps your employer supported you with your taxes during your first couple of years in Switzerland, and this support has now come to an end. Or perhaps you’ve decided that you’d like professional help with your tax return simply to ensure that you don’t over-pay on Swiss tax.

Why choose BDO? A leading financial advisory company with a global presence of over 80,000 people in 162 countries, BDO also

TAKE ACTION NOW! In Switzerland, you only have until the end of March (in a few regions until end of May) to either fully file your tax forms or to apply for an extension to the filing deadline. The filing deadline can typically be extended until Autumn for a small fee or for free. If you are looking for a tax accountant in order to meet the 2019 deadline (or support you with a late submission), you can trust BDO to help you make a worry-free start in the 2019 tax season.

benefits from a strong local network of 37 offices in Switzerland. This is important for resident foreigners, as the international perspective often lies beyond the remit of purely local accounting firms. Relax in the knowledge that thanks to its global footprint, BDO will correctly apply Swiss tax law as well as the rules of international tax agreements between Switzerland and your relevant country. With BDO, you’ll benefit from the best of both local and global tax support and you are certain to receive complete support with personal compliance.

Secure reliable tax support Quality support with personal compliance in Switzerland Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) online chat: helloswitzerland.ch 8

TAX CONSULTING

YOUR CONTACT: GORDANA MUGGLER Gordana Muggler is the Head of Global Mobility and HR Services at BDO Switzerland. Gordana and her team of tax specialists are here to support you and your family members on your personal tax situation.

T +41 58 356 17 77 bdo@helloswitzerland.ch

FEATURED PARTNER: RELOCATION

NO LOOSE ENDS IF AND WHEN YOU LEAVE SWITZERLAND Departure Support packages from Packimpex

If and when it’s time to leave Switzerland, you will want everything to go smoothly. Find out how these smart Departure Support packages can help you leave Switzerland with complete peace of mind. From terminating your lease contract to finding a new tenant, accompanying you to the formal apartment handback, and even handling repairs and viewings once you have left Switzerland, you will receive the support you need every step of the way.

Are you a Superhero, a Teamplayer or would you go for the VIP treatment?

Superhero

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You want to be in charge of your departure and organize everything yourself. And that’s great! But every superhero needs a buddy, especially when it comes to the complex Swiss real estate market.

You want to be in charge, but with the help of a professional Relocation Consultant. They will keep a watchful eye, train you on what to look out for and accompany you to the handback to make sure everything goes smoothly.

You want to kick up your feet and relax, while our departure support experts are busy organizing everything. They will do all that is required to make sure you leave no loose ends behind. Your time involvement is reduced to a minimum.

Get in touch with us and find out more about these helpful packages: • what superpowers you can benefit from if you choose the Superhero package • how you can work together with your Relocation Consultant if you choose the Teamplayer package • what is included to keep you stress free and focused on your new adventure, should you choose the VIP package

Book departure support Expert advice - the right partners - the best deals Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) online chat: helloswitzerland.ch RELOCATION

EVENTS March - April 6 – 7 April

Freeride Days

Photo credits: ©Glacier3000

Les Diablerets

Two days of freeride in the Glacier 3000 ski area, accompanied by guides and professional riders.

bit.ly/HelloFreeridedays 6 – 7 April Tulip Festival in Morges ©Switzerland Tourism/Markus Aebischer

12 March – 18 May

5 – 13 April

Bern

Cully

44. International Jazz Festival Jazz, Blues, Soul & Latin Music… International musicians, including world class performers, appear at more than 200 individual concerts in the very personal space of Marians Jazzroom. The Jazz Tent also provides a platform for music students from Switzerland and New York to play on stage for the first time. The festival is firmly established in Switzerland. More than 30’000 jazz enthusiasts attend every year.

bit.ly/HelloBernJazzFestival 30 March – 5 May

Tulip Festival

Morges, Lake Geneva

The Tulip Festival lasts six weeks and presents more than 120,000 tulips of 300 varieties in Parc de l’Indépendance in Morges. Our tip: head there in April, when the first tulip varieties are in bloom. The festival takes place by the lake and various attractions for children are also in place.

bit.ly/HelloTulip

Cully Jazz Festival

Festichoc Versoix

Switzerland’s largest festival dedicated to chocolate, Festichoc is a familyfriendly event with free admission. It brings together more than 30 chocolate artisans from all over Switzerland.

bit.ly/HelloFestichoc 6 – 14 April

Fumetto International Comix Festival This festival kicks off the festival season. Situated between Lausanne and Vevey, at the heart of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyard terraces, Cully beats to the rhythm of the greatest jazz musicians under the main stage tent. ©Claude Dussex

Lucerne

bit.ly/HelloCullyJazzFestival

bit.ly/HelloFumetto2019

6 April

8 – 14 April

Kleine Scheidegg, Bern

Saas-Fee, Valais

This festival, taking place on the Kleine Scheidegg pass, offers musical enjoyment 2000 meters above sea level. Headlining the festival is the British singer James Morrison.

The Saas-Fee Filmfest will show films from Switzerland and its neighbouring countries (Italy, France, Germany, Austria). It will bring extraordinary films, film-makers and actors to Saas-Fee.

bit.ly/HelloSnowpenair2019

bit.ly/HelloSaasFeeFilmfest

Snowpen Air

The Fumetto festival is a very important period of the year in Lucerne: “Fumetto is an essential venue for art lovers. It is the platform for influential and innovative comic art.” It also features Graphic Design and Illustrations.

Saas-Fee Filmfest

EVENTS March - April 9 – 13 April

19 – 22 April

Zermatt

Reusch, Gstaad

Founded in 2007, Zermatt Unplugged has developed into a meeting point for fans of unadulterated sounds. Musicians and bands such as Chris de Burgh, Alanis Morissette, Billy Idol, Jason Mraz, Amy Macdonald, Suzanne Vega, OneRepublic, Mando Diao, Lionel Richie, Seal, Lauryn Hill, David Gray, Stephan Eicher, Roger Hodgson and many more have been inspired by the Unplugged idea. Zermatt Unplugged is the only festival of its kind in Europe.

The earliest «Oktoberfest» takes place at the «Roosterbar» in Reusch near Gsteig. Expect a Weisswurst eating competition, Wienerschnitzel and plenty of music.

Zermatt Unplugged

Earliest Oktoberfest

bit.ly/HelloAprilOktoberfest 20 April

Spring Break & Waterslide Nendaz, Valais

bit.ly/HelloZermattUnplugged2019

The right way to see winter off, with lots of parties, outdoor jaccuzzis and fun competitions – at the Tracouet ski piste in Haute Nendaz.

9 – 14 April

bit.ly/HelloSpringBreak

Basel

25 – 27 April

Basel is turning blue. The festival hosts local talent as well as international stars. Make sure to check out the free concerts.

Solothurn

Blues Festival

17. Solothurner Beer Days After a long winter, more than 50 breweries invite you to come celebrate the Swiss beer culture

bit.ly/HelloBaselBlues

bit.ly/HelloSolothurnerBeerdays 13 – 14 April

Medieval Market

16 April

Sechseläuten spring festival

28 April

Lake Murten Slow up

Lucerne

Zurich

Excitement and fun combined with creativity. Make the medieval times come alive in Luzern. Who needs historic movies and books when you have markets like this? If you feel like dressing up, you can!

Will it be a hot summer? Every April locals take to the streets of Zurich and set a snowman on fire to find out. The tradition is called Sechseläuten: the name means “the bells at six” and dates from the 16th century.

Murten Lake, Fribourg

bit.ly/HelloMedievalMarket

bit.ly/HelloBöögg

bit.ly/HelloSlowupMurten

Stay up to date with events in Switzerland Check our online event calendar and subscribe to our newsletter

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At this event 30 km of streets are closed around Lake Murten. You can walk, bike or skate around the lake, and you can even enjoy various festivities on the route.

EVENTS May 11 May

Grand Prix

4 May

Bern

Dinner and traditional Swiss Yodel music concert

RECOMMENDED

Hoher Kasten revolving restaurant, Appenzell

Hoher Kasten is the name of a peak in the Appenzeller Alps and also the name of a very special mountain top revolving restaurant. Hoher Kasten is only reachable by funicular (a 10 min ride with spectacular views). The restaurant has been awarded first prize at Best-of-Swiss Gastro Awards and it also displays spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The event on 4 May features a special dinner and a traditional music concert from a top-notch Swiss yodel quartet, Pfiifestier Appenzell. Enjoy an exquisite dinner, spectacular views and Swiss traditional music.

bit.ly/HelloHoherKastendinner

Also referred to as the “10 most beautiful miles in the world”, the Grand Prix in Bern is a running festival and spectacle that’s a class apart. The largest running event in German- speaking Switzerland with over 20,000 entrants is a sports competition for elite sportspersons and families alike. The unique setting of the UNESCO World Heritage of Bern constitutes a special attraction.

bit.ly/HelloBernGrandPrix 11 – 12 May

Harmony Marathon for UNICEF Geneva

4 – 5 May

5 May

Sion, Valais

Gruyères, Fribourg

The Hérens national cow fighting championships select the queen of Valais fighting cows. Experience an unforgettable day in the heart of the Valais Alps!

A Swiss cheese extravaganza and an unmissable event for cheese lovers. Expect tastings of key cheese varieties from the region, try an authentic alpine fondue, watch how the famous Gruyère cheese is made over a wood fire and sing along to traditional Swiss music bands.

Cow fighting championship

bit.ly/HelloCowFightsHerens 4 – 6 May

Fête de la Danse/ Dance Festival Several locations

Every year, at the beginning of May, the Dance Festival is held in 19 cities in Switzerland (and one city in France). Dance is celebrated everywhere and under all its forms: with shows, performances in public spaces and more than 600 dancing lessons both for beginners and for professional dancers. Hip Hop, Tango, contemporary dance or folk dances... choose your style and join the party!

bit.ly/HelloDanceFestival

Cheese Festival

bit.ly/HelloGruyeres

The Harmony Geneva Marathon for UNICEF is arguably one of the most picturesque city marathons in Europe and unquestionably one of the fastest. The course takes in the countryside nestled between mountains and the shore of Lake Geneva before finishing in the heart of the city in front of the famous Jet d’Eau. There will be 8 races: Marathon, Relay Marathon (4-6 people), Half-Marathon, Wheelchair Race, 10km (open to runners and walkers), La Genevoise #LikeAGirl by Always (a 6.5km race for women) and Junior Races (1 to 5km for 6 to 15-year-olds).

bit.ly/HelloHarmonyMarathon 16 – 26 May

Food Zurich Zurich

2019 will have another stellar line-up of speakers and performances to inspire, excite and challenge your thinking with ideas worth spreading. Be part of a multinational, multicultural audience.

An unmissable event for foodies. For 11 indulgent days, Zurich will host over 100 events, all centered on food and drink. The program ranges from unforgettable dinners at exceptional locations to a Street Food Festival lasting several days, to professional cookery courses, food tastings, kitchen battles, urban gardening, and guided tours of the Zurich gastro scene, rounded off by a varied assortment of other culinary highlights.

bit.ly/HelloTEDx2019

bit.ly/HelloFoodZurich2019

11 May

TEDx Basel

Discover more exciting events at: www.helloswitzerland.ch/events

EVENTS Easter 21 – 22 April

Chocolate Bunny Hunt Château de Vullierens, Vaud

RECOMMENDED

Hunt for Lindt chocolate bunnies, pet little Easter animals or have a lovely brunch at this magical place with a breathtaking garden. Don’t forget to visit King Lizard’s kingdom, a wonderful fun activity for kids.

bit.ly/HelloEasteratChâteauVullierens

5 – 7 April

6 – 28 April

18 – 19 April

Huttwil, Bern

Vully, Fribourg

Mendrisio, Ticino

Easter egg painters from other countries travel to this special event in the historical Emmental village of Huttwil. See how chocolate Easter bunnies are made in special molds or watch live chicks hatching from their eggs. This is a great excuse to visit one of the most beautiful Swiss regions, the Emmental.

Around 35 fountains will be beautifully decorated for Easter. Plenty of attractions for children will be available including an Easter tiny train.

The processions are an ancient tradition going back to the 17th century, and perhaps even further. The procession is a theatre featuring the inhabitants of Mendrisio who, among illuminated diagrams, show the passion and crucifixion of Christ.

Easter Egg Market

Easter fountains at Vully

bit.ly/HelloVullyFountains

Historical Easter processions

bit.ly/HelloMendrisioProcessions

bit.ly/HelloHuttwilEasterEgg

19 – 20 April

Replacing the bells

6 – 14 April

Romont, Fribourg

Music Festival at Easter

In Easter, the town of Romont will get a makeover from Thursday to Saturday: The bells will be replaced with “tapolets”, leaving the bell towers silent. Don’t miss the children with their own tapolet; they’re gonna want candy!

Lucerne

Lucerne is without a doubt a city that lives and breathes classical music throughout the year, with some exquisite festivals taking place at its famous KKL perfect acoustics hall. The Easter Festival provides a splendid opening to the festival season in Lucerne. Established in 1988 and taking place during Passiontide with final performances on Palm Sunday, the festival is devoted to spiritual music, with concerts taking place in the main concert hall of the KKL Luzern and in the atmospheric ambience of Lucerne’s churches.

17 – 20 April

22 April

Aletsch Arena, Valais

Bremgarten, Zurich

bit.ly/HelloEasterFestivalLucerne

The Aletsch Arena is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the region and have fun participating in the waterslide contest on Easter Sunday.

This Easter market, with over 400 exhibitors, has invited people for almost 800 years and is among the largest markets in Switzerland. On Easter Sunday the amusement park opens!

bit.ly/HelloAletschArenaEaster

bit.ly/HelloBremgartenmarket

bit.ly/HelloTapoletsRomont

Easter in Aletsch Arena

Easter Market

FEATURED PARTNER: CONNECTIVITY

Free VIP Fast Track Connection Service Discover a special connectivity service for international people WHY CHOOSE HELLO SWITZERLAND’S FAST TRACK CONNECTIVITY SERVICE: For newcomers, the major benefit is that by contacting Hello Switzerland you can start the telecoms connection process even before you relocate to Switzerland. For residents, it’s simply the easiest way to upgrade to Swisscom. For those leaving Switzerland, especially earlier than planned, Hello Switzerland can help you terminate your contract earlier than the official exit date without having to pay a penalty fee.

WHY CHOOSE SWISSCOM FOR TV & TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Switzerland’s favorite telecom provider:

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inOne packages are easy to understand, and if your needs change, you can modify your plan at any time.

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Award-winning customer care, highly responsive technical support, and all documentation (services, contracts, invoices, etc.) in English, German, French and Italian.

Swisscom has the most generous TV offer, with more than 300 channels in three dozen languages, 6000+ films on demand, Netflix, Teleclub, and much more. No other TV provider is as expat-friendly as Swisscom.

Excellent customer service:

Find out more about Hello Switzerland’s fast track connectivity service to Swisscom +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates)

@ 14

CONNECTIVITY

helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

• Home and away: all-in-one package •Flexible product • Much better value for money

*Price valid when you combine inOne mobile Premium or Go with inOne Home. Full price of inOne mobile Premium is CHF 200.- and of inOne mobile Go is CHF 80.-

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A worry free start for just CHF 90

Free relocation planning call from Hello Switzerland

1 year breakdown recovery for free from Hello Switzerland

Helvetia welcomes all newcomers with its Welcome Package, which includes all insurance products that a new arrival needs to get off to a perfect start in Switzerland. 90 days for CHF 90 and it includes all mandatory insurances required. Be well insured from day one!

Hello Switzerland offers support and guidance at every step. Our Swiss Relocation Helpline is a complimentary service, and our Helpline advisers provide expert advice for all your questions.

All Hello Switzerland readers can now take advantage of the chance to get 1 year of road side assistance membership for free! This includes 24 hour breakdown coverage, whenever or wherever you need it. TCS offers breakdown coverage on the spot. With our experienced teams providing support across Switzerland, you can be sure that help is less than 35 minutes away.

Available by contacting the Relocation Helpline

Ultra-fast internet, TV 2.0, and great mobile coverage

Volvo Cars - amazing discounts for expats

Get connected with Swisscom quickly and easily simply by contacting the Swiss Relocation Helpline. You’ll enjoy quality service from our specialist advisers, from product advice to how to switch from your existing provider. Plus, you’ll always find the latest Swisscom special offer on the Hello Switzerland website.

Looking for a new car? Look no further! Discover discounts of up to CHF 45,000 off a new Volvo thanks to Volvo’s unique Expatriate Sales Program. This deal is only available via Volvo Expat Switzerland.

Available by contacting the Relocation Helpline

DEALS & OFFERS

We advise on moving home, the Swiss rental market, essential daily services and more. We’ll help you get the best value for money, and to plan everything properly.

Available by contacting the Relocation Helpline

Affordable storage options starting at just CHF 25 per month Are you relocating, fixing water damage, renovating your home or looking to gain valuable living space? Packimpex offers secure rental storage options in Zurich, Winterthur, Bern and Fribourg, starting at CHF 25 per month when you book a minimum of 3 months!

Available by contacting the Relocation Helpline

EXCLUSIVE RELOCATION HELPLINE DEALS

Banking services free for two years*

Free tax & social security briefing

Berlitz language courses 5% off

Bonviva Banking Packages from Credit Suisse give you an immediate advantage. You receive all major banking services from a single source — at an attractive fixed price. As a Hello Switzerland customer you will get the Bonviva Silver Package for free for two years, worth CHF 360.

Your free one-hour briefing meeting with a BDO expert includes a general overview of the tax and social security system in Switzerland, and focuses on the tax & social security implications of your relocation. After the briefing, you will receive a brochure explaining the Swiss tax and social security system.

Boost your language skills with the highly effective Berlitz method. Hello Switzerland community members receive 5% for key language courses. Contact the Hello Switzerland Relocation Helpline for details.

Available by contacting the Relocation Helpline

*For detailed information regarding this offer, please see the legal disclaimer on p.26

Your benefit: a ride in the “young at heart graffiti” Bentley

60 free Catch-car minutes with our exclusive code

Discover Basel’s largest open-air museum with this unique street art tour in our ‘youngat-heart graffiti’ Bentley. The tour includes: • 1 overnight stay at the iconic Les Trois Rois hotel, including a sumptuous breakfast buffet • Private urban tour through Basel • A ride in the ‘young-at-heart graffiti’ Bentley • Basel Card (free use of public transport in Basel, 50% discount on cultural and leisure activities)

Easy, affordable, ecological, independent and convenient: Catch a Car is a really cool way of car sharing.

bit.ly/HelloUrbanArtExperienceLTR

bit.ly/HelloCatch-a-car

Find out more using the link below and claim your 60 free Catch-car minutes using our special code CATCHHELLO.

Free advice The right partners The best deals YOUR ADVANTAGE Swiss Relocation Helpline

Free advice from locals

Call: +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) Mail: helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

WALKING THROUGH SWITZERLAND ON ST. JACOB’S WAY written by: TAK Erzinger

The Pilgrim’s Way The morning is quiet except for the tinkle of cow bells that I can hear outside the bedroom window. Well it’s not actually my bedroom but rather one of the rooms that belong to a large farm house where I spent the night. Upon arrival, my host, the farmer, had left a note that she was running late due to bailing summer hay. She suggested that I make myself comfortable on the shaded patio. I did and fell instantly asleep. I had just walked 45 kilometres during the past three days. St. Jacob’s way or Jakobsweg When people hear the word ‘pilgrimage’ they automatically think of El Camino de Santiago that leads through Spain to Santiago de Compostela. Last spring, I became interested in a lesser travelled route that goes right through my adopted country Switzerland. I had actually never in my life considered traveling through a country on foot. Previously holidays had meant doing something relaxing. A year ago my whole life changed after having a nervous breakdown. I was told I was suffering from burn-out and post-traumatic stress disorder. After months of therapy, I started to feel like I needed something else to move me along the healing process, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. TAK Erzinger is an American/Swiss poet. Her poetry and personal essays have been featured in Mojave He[art] Review, Cirrus Poetry Review, The Beautiful Space Journal, The Curlew, The Rising Phoenix Review, Harness Magazine and many more. Her debut poetry collection entitled, Found: Between the Trees (Grey Borders Books 2019) is set for release in April 2019. It is available at www.greyborders.com

?????????? TRAVEL

Then my husband told me about Jakobsweg or St. Jacob’s Way, the part of the El Camino de Santiago that runs through the whole of Switzerland. One of the routes actually passes through my village, so I decided to begin the voyage from my very own door step with Geneva as the end goal.

The Miracles along the Way My decision to walk through Switzerland opened up a whole new side to the land I call my home and made me feel like less of a stranger. One of the things that stuck with me while walking on Jakobsweg is that every time you feel like giving up, you are blessed by these small miracles. I know it sounds strange to talk of miracles in the 21st century, but there is no other way to describe them. I experienced this over and over again on the trail.

The End of the Trail I made it only as far as Interlaken because my knee swelled up and I could no longer hike. I had to come home and get a cortisone shot. When I told the doctor that I felt defeated she reminded me, “You did just walk half-way through Switzerland.” Yes, I did and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a different kind of holiday. It was safe, it was beautiful and the people I encountered along the way were most encouraging and kind. I got to experience this country in a completely different way, submersed in nature and quiet. I look forward to picking up where I left off this summer, maybe I’ll just pass you on the way.

Read the entire article on www.helloswitzerland.ch

FEATURED PARTNER: EDUCATION

GIVE YOUR CHILD AN EDGE WITH BILINGUAL EDUCATION AT SIS SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Learn more about the long-term benefits of bilingual education at SIS, the standout school in Switzerland’s bilingual educational landscape. Provided by: Andrea Furgler, CEO of SIS Swiss International Schools Schweiz AG for joining SIS at any level. Special programmes help students to quickly bring their German and English skills up to the necessary level.

Our schools are part of the SIS Group, a pioneer in the bilingual education arena since 1999. SIS operates eight bilingual (English/ German) day schools in Switzerland and 16 schools worldwide. Using the immersion method of language learning, SIS invites children to dive headfirst into the foreign language. Half of the lessons are taught by native speakers of English, the other half by native speakers of German. It is not only in the classroom that English and German play equal roles but also in all other parts of SIS’ diverse day-to-day school life. The immersion method promotes children’s language acquisition as well as their cognitive development – for example, linguistic awareness, creativity and their ability to think outside the box. Bilingualism, however, is not a prerequisite

If you are considering bilingual education for your child, have a look at the following key advantages of sending your child to SIS: • Continuous education from kindergarten to college. • Day school structure with lunch, before and after school care as well as exciting extracurricular activities - also during school holidays. • Students are prepared for both nationally and internationally recognised qualifications such as the Swiss bilingual Matura and the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB). • Encourages rapid integration into the local community – also for parents. • Instruction using the immersion method over a number of years results in near-native fluency in the second language. • SIS places equal emphasis on an international outlook and close ties to the local community. Students graduate as global citizens with a strong sense of their origins.

Experience how SIS puts its educational concept into action at any of the eight upcoming SIS Open House events in your area.

Let us search for your perfect international school Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) www.helloswitzerland.ch/education 20

CHILDREN & FAMILY

SIS Drop-in Open House Events at a Glance • Visitors can explore the school facilities and attend lessons • Q&A with the school principals and management • Children are also welcome to visit • Possibility to chat over a cup of coffee with other parents We are looking forward to getting to know you and your children soon!

ABOUT ANDREA FURGLER Andrea Furgler is the CEO of Swiss International Schools Schweiz AG. SIS operates 16 bilingual, private day schools in Switzerland, Germany and Brazil with more than 3,700 students attending classes from kindergarten through to college.

helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

www.swissinternationalschool.ch

FEATURED PARTNER: LANGUAGE COURSES

THE BERLITZ METHOD® Speak with confidence

The Berlitz Method® is one of the most effective ways to learn a new language successfully and enjoyably since 1878. No matter how old or young, whether it’s for private or professional purposes language students all over the world love it. This intuitive and conversational style of teaching has not only revolutionized language instruction but has become the industry standard for language acquisition and remains at the core of Berlitz’ teaching approach.

Key aspects of the Berlitz Method® 1. Full immersion in the language one desires to learn 2. Tailor made course content based on your personal goals and background 3. High percentage of speaking time in order to absorb the language and reduce inhibitions 4. Targeted learning, as Berlitz trainers find a suitable balance between improving your fluency and developing your accuracy of expression 5. Intuitive grammar: instead of focusing

on grammar worksheets, Berlitz trainers instill an intuitive sense of your targeted language’s grammar through speaking 6. Appropriate learning: Berlitz trainers use the tools that correspond to the way you learn best, significantly boosting your ability to improve upon your language skills

Top language instructors Berlitz only succeeds when you succeed. Rest assured that when you sign up for Berlitz language classes, the trainers are the cream of the crop, working with materials designed to maximize your learning experience.

Guaranteed goal achievement Thanks to the patented Berlitz method® your language learning goals will be accurately set and expertly met. From individual to group classes, from face to face to cyber learning, Berlitz offers a wide range of flexible options catering to the needs of the busiest professionals, but also to those with more time to spare for effective language training.

Sign up for effective language training Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) www.helloswitzerland.ch/education LANGUAGE COURSES

Try out your desired language without obligation and meet like-minded people who want to learn languages together at Berlitz’ “all-you-can-speak” trial lessons. The offer is valid for different target languages with guaranteed fun and success.

ABOUT ROXANA SCHWICKERT, CENTER DIRECTOR Roxana Schwickert and her team of professional language instructors at Berlitz will help you find the most effective type of language instruction to significantly and rapidly boost your language skills.

Tailor-made options

Boost your language skills

Free trial lessons

+41 58 356 17 77 @ helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

Speak with confidence

Arrange a free consultation appointment and take advantage of the

HELLO SWITZERLAND DISCOUNT

Find out more by scanning the QR code on the adjacent page or by contacting Hello Switzerland at +41 58 356 17 77 or helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

Berlitz is one of the leading providers of language training in the world and the Berlitz Method , developed in 1878 and continuously improved since then, is one of the most successful methods when it comes to learning and understanding languages.

Basel • Bern • Geneva • Lausanne • Zug • Zurich 23

FEATURED PARTNER: INSURANCE

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR PEACE OF MIND

Travel smarter and safer, protect yourself and your loved ones. case anything should happen. Here is one true story of how travel insurance managed to be extremely beneficial: one of our customers was traveling to his wife’s home country. During the trip, he suffered a cardiovascular accident and fell. As a result, he suffered several severe fractures. The primary care at the local hospital as well as the subsequent operation and transport back to Switzerland were a considerable burden, both psychologically and financially.

Although unpleasant incidents are the last thing you want to think of when traveling, these can sometimes happen. How can you make sure you are protected? ‘When someone goes on a journey, he comes back with a tale to tell’ – wrote German author Matthias Claudius in the 18th century. In addition to the many pleasant experiences you enjoy on your trips there are also undesirable ones unfortunately. A comprehensive travel insurance can make sure you save money and effort in

Luckily, our customer had taken out a comprehensive travel insurance package before his trip at the advice of our specialized advisor, Markus G. Senn, including cancellation costs, assistance for persons and motor vehicle assistance. Helvetia thus covered all the costs. The benefits of travel insurance include not only financial compensation but also advice and support in an emergency.

To ensure that you can enjoy your trip without worries, you should investigate other types of insurance in addition to travel insurance. These may be, for example, adequate protection against theft or insurance in case your camera is damaged.

Expert advice - the right partners - the best deals Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) online chat: helloswitzerland.ch INSURANCE ADVICE

The two insurance professionals at Helvetia, Markus G. Senn and Ulysse Fiori, can also explain about insurance protection against illness and accidents while on a trip.

MARKUS G. SENN markus.senn@helvetia.ch +41 (0)58 280 81 56

ULYSSE FIORI ulysse.fiori@helvetia.ch +41 (0)58 280 83 28

Moreover, with this type of travel insurance other excursions, concert tickets and course costs are also covered.

Get Swiss insurance right

CONNECT WITH SPECIALISED ADVISORS

Helvetia Insurance: a comprehensive range Helvetia Insurance has been one of Switzerland’s leading insurance companies for 160 years. Helvetia offers customized solutions for a wide variety of insurance needs including private pensions and occupational benefits, indemnity insurance and mortgages.

Do you know anyone who needs relocation support for arrival to Switzerland? We can help! Refer a new customer and watch as they settle in with lightning speed. To thank you for your referral, you will receive the Swiss Coupon Pass worth 49CHF Explore the best of Switzerland with discounts worth up to 4.500CHF.

Get in touch with us at +41 58 356 17 77 or helpline@helloswitzerland.ch

CHÂTEAU DE VULLIERENS: SWITZERLAND’S MOST SPECTACULAR GARDENS Every year between April and July, the gardens of Château de Vullierens (20 minutes from Lausanne) become a magical place. The gardens are opened between 21 April and 28 July.

50,000 flowers create a glorious mosaic of color, with more than 8,500 late-blooming tulips, a collection of peonies and rhododendrons, and an impressive rose garden. Here you will also find the largest collection of irises in Europe (more than 400 varieties). The Château’s quiet splendor and the enchantment of its magnificent gardens

together form one of the country’s most remarkable heritage sites. The sumptuous gardens, unequalled in Switzerland, are framed by stunning views of the Alps, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva, and are certain to delight garden enthusiasts together with admirers of art and architecture. More than eighty sculptures by Swiss and international artists are shown throughout the gardens, with new pieces added each year.

The gardens open on 21 April. Find out more on this website: bit.ly/HelloChateau-de-Vullierens 25

FEATURED PARTNER: BANKING SERVICES

YOUR DIGITAL BRANCH IS ALWAYS OPEN Anytime and anywhere, thanks to Online & Mobile Banking: Credit Suisse Direct offers you numerous helpful features for processing your banking transactions and, thanks to its alert function, ensures that you are kept up to date with your account movements. Stay up to date with the alert function

Extend your mortgage with a few clicks

Do you want to be able to keep an eye on your account movements and current account balance, and receive notifications about incoming payments? Why not activate automatic notifications directly to your smartphone or computer? Select the menu item “Products & Services/Services/Notifications” and choose how and when you want to receive notifications: Receive a mobile push notification, SMS, or email about credits and debits, your account balance, or when your balance goes above or below a limit you have predefined.

Looking to extend your mortgage? Unless you require personal advice, there’s no need to visit your local branch. You can access your mortgage details via the home page or your account overview, for example. Simply select the required term, and in just a few clicks you can extend your mortgage.

Invoice scanning using your smartphone Accidentally entered an incorrect reference number again? That’s now a thing of the past. With the Credit Suisse Direct app, you can scan payment slips using your smartphone. This means that payments and account transfers can be carried out in full online. Many companies now provide electronic invoices. In the “eBill” client portal, you can receive, check, and approve electronic invoices.

Concise business information No time to get to grips with the torrent of financial and business articles? You can specify your chosen topics under “Market assessments” and we will show you the relevant assessments by Credit Suisse in a condensed format, sorted by topic and tailored to your portfolio. A complete overview of the publications in PDF format is, of course, also available.

Not yet gone digital? Apply for Credit Suisse Direct now at credit-suisse.com/onlinebanking and discover numerous other features.

Legal Notice: The information provided in this publication is only intended for distribution and use by persons who are residents of Switzerland. In particular, it is not directed at, or intended for distribution to or use by or for the offer or solicitation of any products or services directed to, any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of or located in any jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, availability, use, offer or solicitation would be contrary to applicable law or regulation or which would subject Credit Suisse to any registration or licensing requirement within such jurisdiction Credit Suisse will not treat readers of this publication as its clients by virtue of them accessing it. Readers of this publication should seek the advice of their independent financial advisor prior to taking any investment decision on the basis of any information contained herein and no information herein constitutes general or specific investment, legal, tax or accounting advice of any kind, it is solely for marketing purposes. Copyright © 2019 Credit Suisse Group AG and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

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Track your account. Via push notification. Credit Suisse Direct. Online & Mobile Banking. Account information at your request. credit-suisse.com/onlinebanking

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THE TRAILING SPOUSE REIMAGINED An interview with the authors Moving abroad, feeling lonely, feeling out of place... Does that sound familiar? ‘The Trailing Spouse Reimagined’ is the brainchild of three energetic ladies (Adriana Quark, Rylla Resler, Francesca Incocciati) who collected inspiring stories of people thriving abroad. Hello Ladies, tell us a bit more about yourselves first. The three of us moved here about 10 years ago for love, or rather for our husbands who had job opportunities in Basel and for our families as it was a good opportunity for all. Adriana is from Brazil, Rylla from the US, and myself, Francesca, from Italy. We left friends, communities and careers to begin again in a new country where we did not speak the language and did not know anyone.

Tell us more about The Trailing Spouse Reimagined, your book. How did the idea come about? We met at a workshop about living your best life abroad, we heard and were inspired by the stories of life the participants in the group shared. They spoke of good times and bad, of how they had reached deep inside themselves in order to recreate their lives abroad.

We decided to collect more stories and to share them with a larger audience. The result is a book of essays about people from 10 countries and 4 continents who found their own ways to thrive living abroad. The stories bring forward a new kind of “trailing spouse” who has discovered hidden talents and new wisdom, and is richer for it.

Describe your book in 5 words: Inspiring: Each interview provided us new insight into what life can be like when you leave all you know and begin again. Comforting: People shared their joys and sorrows. Experiencing ups and downs in life abroad is not only normal; it’s very common. We are not alone in this journey.

Multicultural: The people we interviewed come from many cultures, speak numerous languages and have different faiths and ways of life. Powerful: The people we featured were brave enough to share not only their stories, but also their deepest feelings. Provocative: These powerful stories come from a population that is sometimes invisible; when people move abroad there is much focus on the welfare of the employee and logistical support for the partner and family, but often the spouse is told to learn the language, and all will be well. We know that there is a lot more to adjusting and being happy in your life abroad as a trailing spouse than that, and we’re so glad to give voice to this group of people through our book.

The Trailing Spouse Reimagined is available at every bookstore in Switzerland. You can also order it on www.bergli.ch

LIVING IN SWITZERLAND

FREE 1 YEAR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE A HELLO SWITZERLAND SPECIAL OFFER 8 reasons to join TCS As a Touring Club of Switzerland (TCS) member, you can rely on 24/7 breakdown assistance and roadside recovery 365 days a year, rain, snow or shine. With over 620 roadside patrols and partner garages, you can be sure that you’re covered in the case of a roadside emergency. Your membership protects you in any vehicle you drive, both cars and motorbikes, and comes with many advantages:

1. 2. 3. 4.

Quick response & 24hr breakdown assistance TCS patrols are there for you 24/7, all year round, with an average waiting time of 35 minutes.

Technical expertise No matter the make, engine or type of vehicle, our experts know how to get you back on the road.

Experienced patrol services 220 patrol members handle around 280,000 assignments every year. They know what they’re doing!

Special member offers Members enjoy special discounts: •D iscount of up to 25% on cable cars and mountain railways •2 .5 cent savings per liter of fuel at BP •2 % fuel discount at Tamoil •S ave up to CHF 100 at Adam Touring and Premio when purchasing four tires

Protection for the whole family With TCS, you don’t need to worry about your family members driving your vehicle. Family members in your household can get coverage for driving a vehicle registered to the policyholder.

Services Before you leave on a road trip, or at the onset of winter, your vehicle will be checked by experts at one of the 19 TCS technical centers at a favorable membership price.

7. 8.

Peace of mind Did you lock your key in the car? Have you run out of petrol? There’s no need to worry about these little problems — the TCS patrol will come to your rescue (even if you might be at fault).

Safe travels guaranteed In 8 out of 10 breakdowns your vehicle will be repaired on the spot. If your vehicle cannot be repaired straight away, we will arrange for a comfortable onward journey.

Free 1 year breakdown recovery service for Hello Switzerland readers Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) online chat: helloswitzerland.ch 30

SAFE TRAVELS

Photo: © TCS

With over 1.5 million members, you can trust Switzerland’s #1 breakdown assistance.

Zug | Zurich | Luzern | Sursee

Cleaning Services

Ready to discover the best of Switzerland? Receive our top tips straight to your inbox, together with carefully selected events and essential information for international residents living in Switzerland. Clean, careful and reliable. Caring for our customers for over 30 years! Book an appointment today with experienced, trusted and professional cleaners.

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