On 20 May 2020, Switzerland's Federal Council decided it would allow religious services to take place again from 28 May 2020. © Nuvisage | Dreamstime.com Faith communities should be able to resume their common religious life, said the … [Read more...]
News and Features
Coronavirus: unmarried couples can cross between Austria, Germany and Switzerland
On 15 May 2020, the Swiss government announced that the borders between Switzerland, Germany and Austria are to open again for unmarried couples in long-term cross-border relationships from midnight.  © Lena Wurm | Dreamstime.com These … [Read more...]
Swiss central bank could take negative rates lower
The rate on deposits at the Swiss National Bank (SNB) is currently -0.75%. And while taking the rate further into negative territory is not the base case scenario, it cannot be excluded, according to some economists at the bank UBS. © Marekusz | … [Read more...]
Most want masks made compulsory on Swiss public transport, suggests survey
More than two thirds are in favour of making masks compulsory on Switzerland's public suggests a survey run by Tamedia, according to the newspaper Le Matin. © Artzzz | Dreamstime.com In addition, the survey showed widespread support for … [Read more...]
Italy set to reopen borders with Switzerland from 3 June 2020
Italy is preparing to reopen its borders with the rest of Europe, according to the newspaper La Repubblica. © Ellesi | Dreamstime.com A draft law on new rules was published on 15 May 2020 by the Italian Council of Ministers. It provides for … [Read more...]
Guides

8 things you must do if you’re running a Swiss business
Brought to you by Winbiz online accounting for Swiss businesses. Once a business is established, there are many ongoing administrative tasks required by law. The main ones are covered in this article. The first few relate to employees and … [Read More...]

Hiring a cleaner – around half break law on Swiss accident insurance
Brought to you by quitt.ch Corona virus information In our Coronavirus FAQ, you will find answers to key questions related to Coronavirus and home employees. In Switzerland, around one in seven hire someone to do their cleaning, but around half … [Read More...]
Activities

Switzerland’s spectacular dams and their uncertain future
Switzerland’s 604 hydroelectric plants aren’t just powerhouses for clean energy. Some dams are also dramatic destinations. But their source of fuel is literally drying up. By Bill Harby Switzerland’s glaciers are shrinking. In 2015, of 99 … [Read more...]

Lake Geneva – tests show beaches with cleanest water
A map published recently by the Commission internationale pour la protection des eaux du Léman (CIPEL), a Swiss-French intergovernmental organisation, rates the water quality at most Lake Geneva beaches as excellent or of a medium to good quality. … [Read more...]

Montreux to Gruyères on the chocolate train. Switzerland’s most delicious trip.
By Bill Harby Sorry Willy Wonka, but you won’t want to eat your mode of transportation on The Chocolate Train tour. However, yes, before the day is out, you will taste delicious Swiss chocolate and cheese, and still have time to explore one of … [Read more...]