Country: Swiss Confederation

Capital: Bern

Time: Switzerland uses Central European Time (CET). Hence, clocks are one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Currency: Switzerland uses the Swiss franc. Money can be exchanged at post offices and train stations, which offer similar rates to that of banks. Being one of the banking capitals of the world, ATMs are very common.

Weather: For such a small country, Switzerland is marked by sudden and dramatic climatic conditions. In the North the weather is mild and refreshing. Towards the South, in the Alp area, the weather is warmer thanks to its proximity to the Mediterranean. Summers are normally warm and sunny, but the Atlantic and Mediterranean air currents make long range forecasts impossible. Travelers should bring good clothes and a jacket during the spring, summer, and fall in case of a sudden shift in weather. Year-round snow on the mountain peaks is something to consider if your plans include a trip into the wilderness. Winters are cold and require the appropriate coats, pants, and shoes.

Custom Regulations: Everyone entering Switzerland must have a valid passport. Americans can stay for up to 90 days. Non-EU citizens are allowed to bring 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g of tobacco, 2 liters of alcohol (up to 15%), 1 liter of alcohol (over 15%), and a gift allowance of 100sfr.

Banking Hours: Banks are open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but some banks outside of major cities may close during lunch. Sometimes its possible to find some branches open on Saturday in the resort areas.

Electricity: Switzerland uses 220 volts AC and the continental-style plug. If your appliance has a 110/220-volt switch, all you will need is a plug adapter. Otherwise a current converter is required. Pay attention to sockets in bathrooms and on trains marked "Shavers Only!" While these put out 110 volts, they will burn out with a more powerful appliance.

Tipping: Tips are generally included in the service. Be sure to check your bill or ask, if necessary. Feel free to leave something extra if it seems appropriate.

Getting Around:

Train: The Swiss railway is one of the best in the world. Every car is immaculate, often with fully automated features. Second class rivals most other European first-class trains. Fares work out to around 30sfr per 100k (60 miles). If you are traveling with a rail pass, remember that supplements are required on the private lines (mostly in the mountains).

Bus: Buses take over from where trains stop. The bus and train schedules are well integrated, making it easy to catch connections into the villages.

Ferries: Ferries cross Switzerland's lakes, but most are restricted to the summer season and are mainly for tourist use. While they provide beautiful scenery, people intending to get someplace in a hurry should look elsewhere.

Car: Switzerland's road network is just as well planed as that of its trains. Driving in the mountains can be an invigorating (and hair-raising) experience. If you plan to drive in Switzerland, it is necessary to pay a 40sfr tax. A tax disc (vignette) can be purchased at gas stations, the border, and Swiss tourist agents abroad. Speed limits are 50k/h (30mph) in built-up areas, 80p/h (48mph) on main roads, and 120k/h (72 mph) on highways.