Swiss and Chips - Your British guide to Switzerland (Jo Fahy, Simon Zryd)
Explore every episode of Swiss and Chips - Your British guide to Switzerland
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
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| 03 Sep 2019 | Swiss German sayings: what they mean (and how to say them!) | 00:20:12 | |
--- Send us your questions --- "There's enough hay down there now" to "even his chopping block will calve": these are just a few everyday sayings that make perfect sense in Swiss German, but don't exactly translate into English. Whether you've heard some of them already, or just want to impress with a sentence or two at the right moment, this is our pick of some useful sayings in Swiss German. In this episode, we try to explain their meaning and talk about when you can use them. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland Chasch nät z Füfi uz Weggli ha Das macht der Braatä onät fiis. Däm Chalberet no dr Schittschtock Winä kertä Hentschä Äs het solangs het Äs git nüt wos nät git Uf altä Pfanä leertmä chochä Dr schnäller isch dr Gschwinder Äs isch gnueg Heu nitna Dr gschider git naa u der Esel blibt schtaa
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| 14 Oct 2021 | Trip tip: An easy walk through the vineyards | 00:07:48 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Vines, food and splendid views: if you're looking for a short and easy walk to do by yourself or when you have visitors in town, this is an episode for you! We talk about a scenic, circular walk in canton Bern that will take you from the village of Twann to Ligerz, via the vineyards and back along the lakeside to Twann.
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| 22 Dec 2022 | From Bern to Colmar: Swiss and Chips over the border | 00:10:35 | |
--- Send us your questions --- If you're looking for Christmas magic, put Colmar, France on your list of must-see places. A beautiful city at any time of year, it is decorated and lit up to perfection every Christmas. The city's cobbled streets are flanked by Medieval or Renaissance-period buildings and small canals run alongside the main thoroughfares. There are six different markets to see, each with a different focus such as artisan crafts, food or even an area aimed at children. On top of all that, the city's park has an ice rink and even a merry-go-round that has been adapted into a highly festive rotating drinkery. Although Switzerland has an abundance of lovely Christmas markets, a trip to Colmar is something special: we'll tell you why in this latest episode! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German The word in this episode was "biräweich".
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| 12 Mar 2019 | Becoming Swiss, part two: 'Getting the Right Information' | 00:15:05 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Applying to become Swiss is a long process and requires lots of forms, documents and appointments. If you've lived in Switzerland long enough to think about applying, this probably won't come as a surprise! In the city of Bern, an information evening is offered to people who want to apply. We went along to clear up some questions I had about the process, and to find out as much information as possible. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 30 Dec 2021 | Relocating to Switzerland: A personal perspective | 00:14:28 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Jo moved to Switzerland just over a decade ago, so it seemed to be about time to talk about her experience, the highlights, and what she would do differently if she would do it all over again.
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| 19 May 2020 | What are we missing when trying to make Swiss friends? | 00:18:45 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Finding it difficult to make friends with the Swiss is a common complaint from expats in Switzerland. Do the Swiss really have such different ideas about friendship? What does it take to be able to read between the lines in a conversation with a Swiss person and are there any tips that can help you feel less isolated here? We share our insights on this contentious topic and give you an update on Jo's application to become Swiss. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 20 Jan 2022 | Relocating to Switzerland: Part 2 | 00:20:03 | |
--- Send us your questions --- What is it really like to move to Switzerland? In the second of two episodes looking back at when Jo first relocated from the UK, we delve into some of the unexpected sides to setting up a new life among the Swiss. In this episode we cover:
Previous episodes we refer to in the show:
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| 26 Mar 2019 | Dealing with cultural diversity, the Swiss way | 00:21:26 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Switzerland is a very diverse country with four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. The Swiss also share their border with five countries: Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. And out of all the people living in Switzerland, 25% don't have a Swiss passport. So how does this work? How do the Swiss communicate and how do they all get along with each other? Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 23 Oct 2018 | Swiss German words that don't translate into English: part two | 00:17:12 | |
--- Send us your questions --- In German and Swiss German there are some words that we don't have an equivalent for in English. We think you'll find some of them quite useful! As there are so many words that are hard to translate, we split the show into two episodes: this is part two of the Swiss German/ high German challenge. How many of the words do you know? Zugzwang Innerer Schweinehund Hundsverlocheti Bürogummi Verschlimmbessern Kummerspeck Bünzli Tüpflischiiser Sturmfrei
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| 23 Jul 2019 | Get a holiday vibe without leaving Switzerland | 00:15:31 | |
--- Send us your questions --- With the temperatures heating up again this week, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Switzerland and get to know a few places where you can create the feeling of going on holiday without straying too far from home. We explored some of the locations the Swiss head to when they need a 'staycation'. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 06 Apr 2021 | Having a baby in Switzerland | 00:07:55 | |
--- Send us your questions --- There have been a few long breaks between our last podcast episodes, but we had a good reason: we have a new person in our family! Please welcome Maeve, our beautiful baby girl, who you may now hear in the background of some of our recordings. She was born in early 2021 and our lives became a whirlwind of excitement. Now that the chaos has calmed down we wanted to give you an update and share Jo's thoughts on how pregnancy and having a baby in Switzerland is different to the UK. Learning Swiss GermanWe've also introduced a new regular slot in our show to help you learn Swiss German! In every episode we'll talk about one typical Swiss tradition, event, word or saying you need to know.
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| 25 Sep 2018 | What to do on a Sunday in Switzerland? | 00:16:10 | |
--- Send us your questions --- "All" shops are closed on a Sunday in Switzerland! Well, maybe not all, but many at least. Luckily Switzerland offers many other exciting things for expats and tourists to do on a Sunday. We recorded this episode on the top of the Gurten, a 'must see' in Bern - on a Sunday. Tune in and get some inspiration and ideas about what you can do, and what the Swiss do, on a Sunday.
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| 01 May 2018 | A typical Swiss picnic | 00:17:18 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The food people pack for a picnic would be similar all over Europe, right? Well, as it turns out, a Swiss picnic contains some very typical items, and they're quite different to what would be found in a British picnic basket. Notes on this episode
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| 12 Feb 2019 | Becoming Swiss, part one: 'Before it begins' | 00:17:38 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Becoming a Swiss citizen is a long and somewhat complicated path with a few hurdles to overcome along the way. A few weeks from now Jo will start the process of applying to become Swiss and with that, we are beginning a new series in our podcast: 'Becoming Swiss'. It'll track her progress and give you insight into one person's journey through the Swiss naturalisation system. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Becoming Swiss, part one In this first episode of the new series 'Becoming Swiss', we'll guide you through what it takes in theory to (hopefully!) become a Swiss citizen, what it means to apply for the Swiss passport, hopes and fears, and some personal thoughts on the system.
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| 18 Jul 2024 | Let‘s talk about Swiss National Day | 00:18:11 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Swiss National Day is coming up! Let’s talk about what happens on the big day and what it means to the Swiss. We’ll help you figure out how to mark the occasion even if you haven’t been in Switzerland for long. We also have some new features in our podcast for you: “Swiss bytes”, listener feedback and our survey.
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| 08 Sep 2022 | Becoming Swiss, part seven: 'Crossing the Finish Line' | 00:13:55 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It took around two years, but the moment has finally come. Ten months after the final interview a confirmation letter arrived in the post: Jo is Swiss! Now that's worth talking about. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland What happened so far: Check out our other episodes on 'How to become Swiss'. What happened since the interview What changes after becoming Swiss What's next? Learning Swiss German Our word in this episode is: 'Gschtabi'.
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| 02 Feb 2023 | We taste traditional Swiss food and drink so you don't have to: Rivella | 00:17:17 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The Swiss can't get enough of it: Rivella is the Alpine nation's traditional soft drink of choice. But there's an unusual ingredient hiding beneath the bubbles of this thirst-quenching liquid. Any idea what it is? In this episode, we'll introduce you to the delights of Switzerland's weird and wonderful fizzy refreshment, and Simon takes a blind Rivella taste test to find out how Swiss he is after all. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German How to properly order a Rivella in Switzerland.
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| 21 Dec 2023 | Decoding Swiss German Nicknames | 00:19:08 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Switzerland, a country known for its linguistic diversity, is home to the unique dialect of Swiss German. It has many variations around the country, with words, sounds and phrases changing by city or valley. Here, we dive into a very specific topic of Swiss German - the use of nicknames. In this episode of ‘Decoding Swiss German Nicknames’, we aim to unravel the meanings, origins, and usage of nicknames. Let’s decode together! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German
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| 08 Oct 2019 | How to hike to the top of a Swiss mountain | 00:19:14 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Hiking in Switzerland is a favourite national pastime, especially in autumn, which means there are plenty of maps, online resources, and books to help you find the perfect hike! To get you into the mood, we'll tell you what you have to watch out for and give you all sorts of other tips, including a short excursion we made recently up a mountain and tell you what secrets are waiting for you at the top. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips, Your British Guide to Switzerland: How to prepare for a mountain trail
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| 22 Apr 2019 | 'Fête des Vignerons': make merry at the Swiss winemakers' festival | 00:15:31 | |
--- Send us your questions --- If you’ve looked at any Swiss newspapers or programmes in the past few months you’ll have heard about the ‘Fête des Vignerons’. It’s a once-in-a-generation event that sounds like it's not to be missed. So what’s all the fuss about, and will there be wine? Notes on this episode We try to answer the most important questions before it begins. What is the 'Fête des Vignerons'? The festival is a massive production that takes place in a huge arena in Vevey, French-speaking Switzerland. There is space for 20,000 spectators for every performance. The show itself is a celebration of the winemaking tradition that exists in this part of Switzerland. There is also a festival village with lots of entertainment and music being put on over different stages. The history of the 'Fête des Vignerons' It has a long history, estimated to have begun in the 1700s. Back then, the winemakers’ association which represented landowners, awarded winemakers in the region for their work and gave prizes to encourage the perfection of the art of growing the grapes. There was a parade and eventually in 1797 a stage was erected so more people could see the prize giving. At this point the event started to look more like it does today. The last edition was in 1999. What’s so special about it? It’s the first living Swiss tradition that’s recognised by UNESCO for its ‘intangible cultural heritage’. It can take place a maximum of five times every hundred years. What happens in the show? It’s all about a year in the life of a vineyard, it starts and finishes with the harvest. At the centre of the event is the crowning of winegrowers, who did particularly excellent work. This takes place on July 18. In the show, which is on until August 11, there are 5,500 actors involved, who come from the local region. The costumes are elaborate, handmade, fantastical pieces. There is a gigantic choir, an orchestra, a brass band, a jazz band and more. There are giant video and LED projections. Where can I get tickets? Here. They cost from CHF39-359. Anything else you need to know? The director of the the 'Fête des Vignerons' is Daniele Finzi Pasca, from Lugano. He created the closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games in Turin in 2006 and Sochi in 2014, and has worked for the Cirque du Soleil.
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| 29 Sep 2022 | Driving to the UK from Switzerland | 00:13:42 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The traditional ways to travel between the UK and Switzerland are plane, train and car. 2022 turned out to be the year we used the channel tunnel to make the trip for the first time. We drove from Bern to England and then back a few weeks later. It was an experience to remember! And one that’s worth talking about and sharing with you. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German Our word(s) in this episode: 'Plapperä' and 'Plapperi'.
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| 10 Mar 2020 | When to shake hands in Switzerland | 00:15:13 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Shaking hands in Switzerland is common: children learn it at school and it seems to be a regular feature of everyday life. But when is holding out your hand too much and when would it be a faux pas not to? What are the alternatives when you can't shake hands, for example during the Coronavirus outbreak? We'll run you through the hand-shaking dos and don'ts of Swiss culture! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 11 Jun 2019 | Taking to the classroom to learn Swiss German | 00:17:04 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Many say it can't be done, but some of us will still try! Jo has been attending a Swiss German course and in this episode, she shares her experience of signing up and going to classes. From precisely what the course entails, to what happens in the classroom and the kind of things she has learnt, there were some unexpected elements to the course. Could taking a Swiss German class be something for you? Have a listen as we talk about the pros and cons of taking on learning the local dialect.
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| 05 Mar 2024 | How to survive Swiss queuing culture | 00:20:39 | |
--- Send us your questions --- How do you cope with the chaos, confusion, and frequent frustration of queuing in Switzerland? In this episode, we explore Swiss queuing culture and share our experiences and advice on how to survive and possibly thrive in the chaotic queuing land of the Alps. We have some horror stories to share that you might be able to identify with. Whether you’re a newcomer, a visitor, or a long-time resident, we hope this episode will help you to navigate Swiss queueing protocol, or at the very least, give you a laugh. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German
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| 06 Nov 2018 | How to make friends in Switzerland | 00:26:31 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Making the move to Switzerland is the first big step for expats: starting a social life is one of the next, and it can be just as difficult. The Swiss are not known to be very open at first - luckily there are some simple steps you can take that will make your life in Switzerland easier, and hopefully better. In this episode we talk about my first steps trying to make friends and get to know people in Switzerland as an expat, and I'll give you some tips and ideas from my own experience. We also talk about some prejudices expats have about Switzerland and give you the Swiss perspective: What do the Swiss think about expats, what do the Swiss think if you don't speak their language and how can you respond if the Swiss are rude? We really hope this episode will make your life in Switzerland as an English speaker a bit easier and give you the courage to get out there and start making this country your home!
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| 19 Jun 2018 | How to learn Swiss German (or maybe not) | 00:20:48 | |
--- Send us your questions --- For the first time on our show, we're answering questions from our listeners in the Facebook group "Switzerland for English speakers". If you'd like to join in the discussion, network with other English speakers interested in Switzerland and share your experiences, please feel free to join the group and say 'hello'! This episode is all English speaking expats in Switzerland need to know about Swiss German and high German. What is Swiss German? Do you need to learn it? And if so, where can you learn it and how. We look at the pros and cons compared to learning high German, and hear how it sounds. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland - What is Swiss German and what is the difference to high German?
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| 14 Apr 2020 | Walk with us along Bern's Aare river | 00:19:50 | |
--- Send us your questions --- If you can only get out outside at the moment to go shopping or for some fresh air, you might be starting to get a little bored of your local surroundings. Pop your earphones in and come with us as we head out for a walk along the Aare river in Bern. Where did we go on our walk?
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| 29 Jul 2021 | Becoming Swiss, part five: ‘One form to rule them all’ | 00:10:37 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Once you have fulfilled all of the criteria to apply to become Swiss (take a look at our previous episodes in this mini-series if want to know more about this), you will be faced with filling out "the form". This is where you provide all of your personal details including your entire education history and certificates, Swiss employment history, references and more. In this episode, I explain exactly which documents I had to gather as part of the more than 50 pages I had to put together. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German This episode's word is: Häbel. We explain what it means, its other forms and when to use it.
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| 24 Mar 2020 | Five ways to perfect your Swiss knowledge while staying at home | 00:17:44 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The coronavirus might have stopped you from getting out and exploring Switzerland, but you can still learn plenty about Swiss culture from inside your own home. Here's our list of five things every person interested in getting closer to the Swiss or looking to become Swiss should know. We chose a film, a book, a musician, a recipe and a game that you can look up and enjoy to see you through your weeks staying at home in Switzerland. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips, your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 20 Feb 2018 | Swiss surprises - expectations versus reality | 00:12:57 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The first show is about Swiss surprises: expectations versus reality. Notes on this episode
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| 17 Jun 2021 | What to expect at a Swiss apéro | 00:13:47 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Before or instead of a dinner, at a garden party, a wedding, an office function or even a funeral, it‘s always the right time and place to join or organise a classic Swiss apéro. But what is expected at this typically Swiss get-together? We talk you through the food and drinks, the preparation, and, as always, the subtleties of navigating a Swiss event. What is a Swiss apero? The classic Swiss apéro involves nibbles and drinks and is suitable for any occasion. The food usually consists of cold meats and cheese, crackers and/or (Zweifel) crisps. It can be a little fancier with small pizzas, mini croissants, or anything you find in the kitchen to serve and eat by hand or from small plates. For drinks, you‘ll find white wine and mineral water and most of the time, orange juice. But also here - from tea to beer - nothing is a must, most things go. That‘s it food- and drink-wise, but it can also be much more elaborate of course. The occasion can be anything. It can be a big celebration, for a wedding for example, but it can also be without any major occasion at all if friends walk by and you invite them to your home for an apéro if the time feels right. What do you do at a Swiss apéro? You meet, greet and chat. It's a great opportunity to get to know people better and talk to them. And that's it! All the in-betweens, what you can expect, what the atmosphere's like, and the do‘s and don‘ts are all discussed in this episode of the Swiss
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| 23 Feb 2021 | Weirdest thing you saw when you moved to Switzerland | 00:18:48 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Setting foot into another country can mean a significant change of your lifestyle and sometimes a culture shock. We asked in our Facebook group about your weirdest thing you’ve experienced when you moved to Switzerland and got loads of fun and interesting comments as well aas interesting discussions started. Thanks a lot for that! In this episode we talk about a few of them and Jo will tell you about her personal story when she moved to Switzerland.
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| 29 Jan 2019 | What do you say in Switzerland when... | 00:26:50 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Do you know how to respond in Switzerland to avoid an intercultural mishap? Once you've started picking up the language as an expat, you'll start to notice the mother-tongue speakers around you reply in certain ways to specific situations or questions. This can be from anything as simple as a sneeze to trickier discussions about salaries, or dare-we-go-there, politics. It can take a while to work out what you need to say when, to avoid seriously offending your new-found friends, colleagues or anyone else you meet, so we have a few short cuts for you. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 19 Oct 2023 | Unboxing the Swiss ballot papers | 00:15:45 | |
--- Send us your questions --- After 13 years of living in Switzerland, Jo is finally allowed to have her say in her new home country and participate in the democratic process. The Swiss elections are coming up and after becoming Swiss, this might be the second most exciting day for a new citizen. The papers have arrived (a long time ago) and are ready to be explored. Let's do the unboxing together and talk about the specialities of the Swiss elections. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 02 May 2022 | A 'BEA' Special: the must-see traditional Swiss agricultural fair | 00:11:18 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The BEA is open! This annual traditional Swiss fair is a must-see for anyone living in or around Bern and it's open until May 8 this year. From donkey displays to fairground rides and the chance to sample local beers and a staggering range of cheese, there is so much to see for children and adults. We recorded while out on a day trip in Switzerland, so there's not one, but two recommendations of places to visit in this episode. One of them is an insider tip about a slightly hidden place. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German Our word in this episode is: 'Zuckerwatte'.
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| 04 Dec 2018 | The best Christmas present ideas to take home from Switzerland | 00:23:14 | |
--- Send us your questions --- With only a few weeks to go until Christmas, it's definitely time to pick up the Christmas presents you want to take or send back from Switzerland for friends and family abroad. We have sack-loads of ideas, from traditional Swiss souvenirs, to the more unusual. Hopefully there will be some ideas for you as well! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland Here are some specific gift ideas that we talk about in this episode:
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| 03 Jul 2018 | Wild swimming in Switzerland | 00:20:06 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Summer has started in Switzerland and with temperatures rising above 30°C, all over the country people are jumping into rivers and lakes to cool down. One more reason why Switzerland is a great place to live as an expat, right? With crystal clear water coming from the Swiss mountains there are many beautiful places to go for a dip, even in the big cities. In this episode we talk about what it's like to go wild swimming in Switzerland as an expat, how to find the best spots and how to stay safe. If you've just moved to Switzerland as an expat, or you're coming here on holiday, it's best to know a little bit about what's involved before jumping into the next river. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland - What is wild swimming and what's special about wild swimming in Switzerland - Where to go and what to take - The best pools, rivers and lakes for swimming in Switzerland - Think about safety - Useful apps
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| 09 Oct 2018 | Swiss German words that don't translate into English | 00:15:56 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Today's episode is a direct challenge for you! We talk about Swiss German words, Swiss slang and German words that are hard to translate into English. Notes on this episode: Input from our listeners in our Facebook Group: Susy: Schadenfreude Seamus: Bitsly Katharina: Fremdschämen Susy's second word: Längizit Some others:
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| 17 Apr 2018 | Swiss and Chips: Over the border | 00:14:04 | |
--- Send us your questions --- We are in Italy for the week: first at the International Journalism Festival in Perugia, and then Rome. In this episode we talk about why it's different to travel from Switzerland to neighbouring countries, than it is from England. Notes on this episode * What is it like to have Paris and Rome on your doorstep?
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| 11 Sep 2018 | How to find an apartment in Switzerland as an expat | 00:35:12 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It's not easy to find the perfect place to live and it's even more difficult if you move to a different country. In this episode we answer the all-important questions for English speakers moving to Switzerland, who are looking for the perfect apartment. Should you rent or buy? How much will it cost? Where to find an apartment in Switzerland as an expat, and which documents will you need before you can secure a lease on a new place. After this episode you'll know where and how to start looking and be prepared for when you find the place you could start to call home, whether it's in Geneva, Zurich or Bern - or somewhere in between. Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland: How to find an apartment as an expat This is where it all began for this episode: in our Facebook group, Kate from Moscow asked: "How to find an apartment to rent in Switzerland?" General things to know about finding a place to live in Switzerland, should you rent or buy, is it difficult to find a place, what possibilities you have as an expat when you move to Switzerland and what are the prices you can expect? How do you find the perfect area to move to?
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| 11 Feb 2020 | Unspoken Swiss rules | 00:20:04 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It can feel like there are a lot of rules governing life in Switzerland. They‘re often written on signs in public places or in the building where you live or work. But what about those unspoken rules? The ones you don‘t know exist until a realisation slowly dawns on you that you‘ve been doing something differently to everyone else, and never known.
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| 25 Feb 2019 | Is it time to take a Swiss German course? | 00:18:38 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Communication is key when it comes to fitting in and feeling at home in your adopted country, and being able to understand and speak to people does make your daily life much easier. But that's easier said than done in the German-speaking part of Switzerland where Swiss German is the spoken language. It's a dialect that most Germans struggle to understand and it sounds different in every village you go to. Learning Swiss German is tricky, but not impossible. After passing my German C1 exam, I decided to give it a go and to help me off to a good start, I signed up for a Swiss German course at the 'Migros Klubschule'. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Is it time to take a Swiss German course? After the first few hours in the classroom on my course in Bern, we talk about some important points you'll need to know before you decide to start learning Swiss German and I'll give you some insight into my experience so far.
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| 25 Jun 2019 | Your questions about Switzerland: answered! | 00:18:43 | |
--- Send us your questions --- There’s been lots of questions in our facebook group, Switzerland for English speakers, over the past couple of weeks, so we wanted to talk about a few of them. Moving to Switzerland can be quite a confusing time, from the paperwork to the forms, to saying and doing the right thing..it can be tough! But there‘s always a funny side in the end. Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 08 Aug 2024 | Learning Swiss German with 'ABC SRF 3' - Discover Swiss Traditions | 00:23:03 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Let's dive into another episode about Swiss German through the lens of the traditional Swiss radio game ‘ABC SRF 3’. We' haven’t laughed so much in an episode yet; we’ll let you decide if that’s a good thing. And we introduce two new segments. First, we address user questions and feedback, featuring Cathy, who proudly participates in Swiss traditions. Second, get ready for the brand new "Swiss Bites" (with a must-hear sound effect) and our listener poll. 00:00 - Intro 06:22 - Learning Swiss German
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| 28 Oct 2024 | How to be polite in Switzerland | 00:36:41 | |
--- Send us your questions --- “Especially in times of the pluralisation of lifestyles, there is a need to know how things should be done correctly. Because manners provide security in how to shape interactions positively. They simplify interactions and prevent misunderstandings.” This is a quote from the ‘Swiss Knigge’, a book about good manners and behaviour in Switzerland. Though often associated with formal manners, Knigge in Switzerland has evolved to cover modern-day needs, while retaining its core values of explaining respect and politeness. In this episode, we give you an overview of the book’s chapters, talk about how it can be useful for expats in Switzerland and go through a few of the guide’s most interesting bits. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland 00:00 - Intro 02:00 - Listener Feedback 03:08 - Swiss Bytes: Swiss SBB clock turns 80 05:23 - The Swiss Knigge as a book and ebook 29:58 - Listener give-away: Send us your message! 32:20 - Learning Swiss German: äs herbschtelet 33:03 - Listener poll
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| 23 Jan 2025 | Only in Switzerland: The curse of the washing room in apartment buildings | 00:21:49 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It’s been a while, but we’re back - and we’re diving straight into a topic that’s Swiss and surprisingly sensitive: the (unspoken) rules of the shared washing room. We’ll share some personal stories of washing room drama and tell you what you need to know when searching for a new flat. 00:00 - Intro 02:42 - Swiss Bytes 06:27 - The curse of the washing room in apartment buildings 18:47 - Learning Swiss German: Töggelä 20:46 - Listener poll
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| 13 Feb 2025 | Skiing in Switzerland: going beyond the bunny slopes | 00:24:07 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Tips, passes, and resort advice for newbies on the pistes In today’s episode of Swiss and Chips, we’re talking about how to enjoy a ski day when you’re ready to move beyond your first slope but you’re not ready to hit a “red” yet. We discuss some basics, like choosing the right ski pass or picking a resort, and skiing etiquette. But mainly Jo shares her personal experience. 00:00 - Introduction to this episode 01:26 - Listener feedback 03:08 - Swiss Bytes: Alertswiss 05:04 - Skiing in Switzerland: going beyond the bunny slopes
19:49 - Learning Swiss German: “Spitzcheeri” 22:23 - Listener poll
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| 13 Mar 2025 | Walking Across Borders: Switzerland to France on Foot | 00:15:54 | |
--- Send us your questions --- A journey to Fahy and the history of Tête de Moine cheese. In today’s episode of Swiss and Chips, we’re taking you on a journey across the Swiss-French border on foot! Join us as we explore the charming town of Fahy, visit the House of the Tête de Moine cheese, and dive into the history behind this delicious Swiss cheese. We’ll also share our experience of crossing the border and why many people shop across it. Tune in for an adventure filled with cheese, culture, and travel insights! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland 00:00 - Intro 00:41 - Listener Feedback 05:35 - Walking to France
13:49 - Learning Swiss German: Vögeliwohl 14:55 - Listener poll
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| 03 Apr 2025 | The surprising reality of day-to-day life in Switzerland | 00:21:06 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Not everything is as glossy as it seems Many thanks to all the listeners who reach out to us! Today’s episode is for you. If you have questions or thoughts you want to share with us and the other listeners, let us know! In this episode, we talk specifically about Jonathan’s feedback and his experiences of visiting Switzerland. It inspired us to talk about some other surprises and controversial aspects of ordinary life in Switzerland. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland 00:00 - Introduction to this episode 00:58 - Listener feedback 02:12 - Swiss Controversies 14:55 - Swiss Bytes: Ali on Switzerland 17:25 - Learning Swiss German: “Bodäsuri” 20:00 - Listener poll
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| 24 Nov 2020 | How to celebrate Christmas as an expat in Switzerland | 00:13:30 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Christmas is drawing nearer but thanks to coronavirus, making plans to celebrate it this year isn't very easy. It's difficult enough to get together with family if you live in the same country, but almost impossible if you don't. We like to look on the bright side though! This year could be a chance to find new ways of celebrating Christmas and maybe start some new Swiss traditions at home. In this episode we talk about the parts of a Swiss Christmas that are perfect for our socially-distanced, outdoor times and how you can mix these with your usual festivities to make some wonderful winter days.
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| 17 Sep 2019 | This is what it sounds like in Switzerland's capital city, Bern | 00:15:13 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Come on a walk through one of Bern's picturesque neighbourhoods, Kirchenfeld, and listen in to what the Swiss capital sounds like on an ordinary day. Starting off at the Tierpark (animal park), walking through Helvetiaplatz with many of the country's important museums, I'll talk you through what you will see and hear as you head up into the city centre, walking over a beautiful bridge and ending at one of the city's main attractions, the Zytglogge.
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| 03 Apr 2018 | The flight factor: flying in and out of Switzerland | 00:13:07 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Although Switzerland isn't a big country, it still has a number of airports and each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. Looking for the perfect flight home can be like searching for the holy grail at first, but if you know some basics, it becomes pretty straightforward. Notes on this episodeHow can you find your perfect flight home? It's all about a combination of the below factors:
What marks the different Swiss airports apart? We discuss the pros and cons of flying from Basel, Bern, Geneva or Zurich. And don't forget, these are the basics of finding a cheap flight:
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| 17 Jul 2018 | Ten Swiss German phrases you need to know | 00:19:29 | |
--- Send us your questions --- There are many word or phrases in Swiss German that expats in Switzerland or tourists in the country will start to hear. The dialect varies from place to place in German-speaking Switzerland - so prepare to be surprised! To give you a glimpse into Swiss culture, here are a few words and phrases that you will soon hear as an expat in Switzerland or while here on holiday. We talk about where you will hear them and what they mean. We hope you enjoy the show! If you want to hear more or have any comments, let us know on our website or join the discussion in our Facebook Group ‘Switzerland for English speakers‘. The Swiss German phrases we talk about in this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland: - Grüessäch, tschou
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| 18 Nov 2021 | Becoming Swiss, part six: 'the interview' | 00:05:55 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It's the big moment in the Swiss citizenship process: finally you will meet someone face-to-face who will decide whether all the paperwork you have collected, all the forms you have filled out and all the studying you have done is enough to make you a viable candidate for becoming Swiss.
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| 07 May 2019 | Where to find Swiss second-hand delights | 00:14:45 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Looking for furniture, clothes or something for your home in Switzerland that won't cost the Earth? Then you definitely need to find your nearest flea market or second-hand shop. In the German-speaking part of the country thrift stores are called "Brockis" (short for "Brockenhäuser"). In this episode we'll take you through how you can find them and what to expect, and tell you where to look online if rummaging for a bargain in person isn't really your thing. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British guide to Switzerland
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| 09 Apr 2019 | Shopping in Switzerland: what do you buy where? | 00:15:34 | |
--- Send us your questions --- What are the main shops in Switzerland and where do you go for specific items? In this episode we go through the big name shops, what they sell and where you can find them, plus we talk about some smaller, specialised shops or boutiques, and what you can buy online. Find out about the classic out-of-town shops traditionally frequented by farmers which could be useful for you and the surprisingly affordable electronics. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Shopping in SwitzerlandFood
Clothes
Furniture
Others
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| 01 Jan 2019 | Ice skating on a frozen Alpine lake | 00:16:10 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Imagine walking along a snowy path between the trees in the Swiss Alps until suddenly, a vast lake, completely covered in ice and surrounded by a sheer cliff face, opens up before you: this is what you'll experience if you head to the Osechinensee or Lake Oeschinen in the Bernese Oberland, which has frozen over. It's a veritable winter wonderland! We wrapped up warm and headed out for a skate on the ice. And we've compiled everything you need to know to experience this magical day in the Swiss mountains. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland - What is the lake like? - What makes it so special? - How do I get there? - What should I take with me?
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| 20 Mar 2018 | What do the Swiss think about British people | 00:15:50 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Most Swiss have an opinion about everything and everyone. And that includes the English. Although the first image that springs to mind when thinking of the English might be one of Brits abroad: the red faced, football shirt-wearing, beer can-waving lad that's a familiar sight in warmer countries during the summer months; on second thought, the English also have a reputation for being polite, respectful or even admirable. In this episode we talk about some of the most commonly-held prejudices some Swiss have about the Brits and Jo has the chance to defend British culture. Notes on this episodeLet's do this the Swiss way, by starting a critical conversation with some compliments and positive points:
Although the Swiss are generally respectful about the Brits, not all thoughts are positive:
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| 10 Nov 2022 | Six things you'll find in a Swiss kitchen (and what's missing!) | 00:20:20 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Warning: this episode is a rollercoaster! We try to navigate our way through a traditional Swiss kitchen, and explain the classic items you'll find in any Swiss kitchen cupboard. From flavourings to implements, we lift the table cloth on the secrets of Switzerland's home dining habits - and we reveal a few foody preferences of our own along the way. Plus: what's missing in a standard Swiss kitchen? We name three items that we can't live without, but which have proven to be somewhat of a novelty to your average Swiss. Interested in connecting with us and other listeners? Want to chat about the show, talk about life in Switzerland or even meet up? We want to know how! Please vote and we'll try and make it happen. If anything is missing, you can add it in the comments at the bottom of this page. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German Chnuuschti - if you have a better explanation, let us know in the comments.
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| 18 Dec 2018 | How to get over homesickness | 00:28:05 | |
--- Send us your questions --- You've taken a huge step: packed your bags, filled out all the forms and moved to a completely new place. But once the initial period of excitement wears off, living abroad can start to feel a little bit lonely, especially if your new life isn't fully set up yet, or something great is going on back home. Don’t worry, everyone feels homesick at some point! We've got some ideas to help you get through it.
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| 27 Oct 2020 | Becoming Swiss, part four: The Swiss citizenship test | 00:19:20 | |
--- Send us your questions --- We're still here and still making podcasts: not as often as we'd like, but there's a good reason for that, which we'll explain in this week's episode. But the main topic in this episode is the Swiss citizenship test. Did you know we have a Facebook group? Switzerland for English Speakers is a great place to ask questions and share experiences. Take a look! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 20 Aug 2019 | The Swiss and Chips guide to dating in Switzerland | 00:17:24 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Is dating in Switzerland any different to anywhere else in the world? The Swiss have a reputation for being difficult to get know, so in this episode, we talk about expectations, stereotypes and traditions when it comes to attempting to get romantically involved with a Swiss. How to date in Switzerland: Show notes
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| 08 May 2018 | Full steam ahead! Buying Swiss train tickets | 00:17:37 | |
--- Send us your questions --- There a number of different types of tickets and railcards you can buy to travel around Switzerland whether you have just moved here, or you're only visiting. We run through the discounts available, where and how to buy tickets and how much you can expect it all to set you back.
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| 31 Jul 2018 | What's the weather like in Switzerland? | 00:18:04 | |
--- Send us your questions --- A heatwave has been hitting Europe and while Switzerland’s not part of the EU, it’s still part of Europe! To cool down on these baking hot days, Swiss, tourists and expats alike flock to the country’s lakes, rivers and pools whenever they can. So is it better to experience summer or winter in Switzerland? In this episode we try to explain Swiss weather and when the best time to visit Switzerland is.
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| 04 Aug 2020 | Becoming Swiss, part three: 'Starting the Application Process' | 00:15:41 | |
--- Send us your questions --- After living in Switzerland for ten years, I can now formally apply to become a Swiss citizen! There are a number of conditions I had to make sure I met before applying, which we mention in this episode of the podcast. We'll talk you through how to start the process in Bern specifically, as there are differences depending on where you live and exactly which type of naturalisation you are applying for. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 14 Aug 2018 | How to find a job in Switzerland | 00:21:58 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It's one of the big questions you'll be asking yourself before you move to Switzerland: how can I find a job there? Once you arrive in Switzerland it might not prove as easy as you'd hoped to find a job as an expat either. However, if you know where to look for a job and what you must include in an application, it will be much easier. Where should you look to find a job in Switzerland as a foreigner, how can you make the most of your skills as an expat and what do you need to know before writing your cover letter to a potential employer? Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 25 Feb 2020 | Should you join an English-speaking club in Switzerland? | 00:13:15 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Joining a club in Switzerland is a simple way to make new friends and connections. There are several English-speaking clubs in Bern and other Swiss cities, like the British Residents' Association of Switzerland, which we visited in October 2019. Should you sign yourself up to a club? Listen and find out! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 21 May 2019 | Do you need to know Swiss German to move to Switzerland? | 00:14:54 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Moving to a country where you don't speak the language can be a 'chicken and egg' situation: which one comes first, the language or the move? It's a challenging situation for anyone relocating abroad, and for newcomers to German-speaking Switzerland, this is a big issue. It's hard to get hold of resources to learn this dialect outside of the country. Once here, there are many different regional variations to get to grips with, and the differences between Swiss German and high German can feel overwhelming. In this episode we talk about how to get ready to live in a Swiss German- speaking area and what to expect when you first arrive. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 20 Nov 2018 | How often do Swiss people use other Swiss languages? | 00:20:44 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. But how often do the Swiss use, or try to use, a language that's not their mother tongue? A trip to see the famous annual light projection at the Swiss Federal Palace, the Rendez-vous Bundesplatz, brings up the question as to how much the Swiss are expected to use Swiss languages other than their own in their daily life.
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| 23 Nov 2023 | 5 things you need to know before going to a Swiss cinema | 00:11:16 | |
--- Send us your questions --- The experience of going to see a film in Switzerland has some quirks. The first question you’re probably going to ask yourself when trying to catch a new release is what language it’s going to be shown in and secondly, how much the pleasure is going to set you back. We also explain why we moved the Swiss and Chips community to Substack, a place where we want to hear from you and get to know you better. All our content and community chat on Substack is free. On Substack, you can directly subscribe to the episodes and additional content via email, be part of the subscriber chat, give direct feedback on the episode articles and have your say in polls. This is what happens if you get in touch with us
At this point, many thanks to our first new subscribers on Substack 🥳 and a special welcome to Amritam, Jane and Krissy 👋 Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland Learning Swiss German Swiss words we explain in this episode: “Schärmä”, not to be confused with “Schirm” (umbrella) or being “andercover”. And as a bonus, a more cinema-related word: “Küder”.
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| 06 Mar 2018 | Food: eat your way happy! | 00:10:03 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Chunky chips or skinny fries? And is there a place in any ham sandwich for a slice of gherkin and a bit of hard-boiled egg? There are some big differences between Swiss and British food, and the expectations on both sides. Jo and Simon talk about what they love and hate in both country's cuisines. Notes on this episode
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| 14 Apr 2022 | E61 St. Moritz in winter | 00:12:01 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Snow, a frozen lake and beautiful mountains: there aren't many more things you need to complete the perfect Swiss winter destination. When we headed to St. Moritz in January 2022 we had high expectations for this famous ski resort with a glitzy reputation. And it absolutely lived up to them! With breathtaking winter scenery and vintage Winter Olympics sights, there is lots to do here even if you're not skiing.
Learning Swiss German This episode's word is: Iischzapfä. Hint: you'll see a lot of these in Switzerland in the winter! Don't forget to visit our website for photos.
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| 09 Dec 2021 | How to organise a Swiss (and British) passport for your newborn | 00:14:56 | |
--- Send us your questions --- If you have a British-Swiss child and live in Switzerland, like we do, how do you go about getting their first passports? In this episode we'll explain everything from organising all of the documents to taking a suitable picture of your little one.
Learning Swiss German This week's word is: 'Schoggijob'
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| 07 Dec 2023 | What noise does an animal make in Swiss German? | 00:19:55 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Discovering animal sounds in Swiss German: A fun exploration at the Dählhölzli Petting Zoo Come with us on a stroll through the famous Dählhölzli petting zoo in Bern where we talk about the different animal noises in English and Swiss German. A special welcome and thanks to all our super early subscribers: Samir, Julian, Nuclei, Alicia, Nicholas, Joee and many more - we really appreciate the early support! And Krissy! She was the first to comment in the subscriber chat about what advice she’d give anyone planning to move to Switzerland. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German
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| 05 Jun 2018 | Getting to know the Swiss over dinner: do's and don'ts | 00:21:05 | |
--- Send us your questions --- You've found your way to Switzerland and started setting up a life here. Now it's time to try and get to know the locals, and what better way to do it than over some food? But where to begin? And how to go about it without committing any major faux-pas? There are some simple (unspoken) rules that will enable you to hit the spot. In this episode, we answer the most important questions and give you a glimpse into the Swiss way of thinking, so there will be no big surprises coming your way after the first course. Notes on this episode of 'Your British Guide to Switzerland' - First things first: How do you get invited to a Swiss person's home?
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| 09 Jul 2019 | Hit the road: driving in Switzerland | 00:13:30 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Do you need a car in Switzerland? And what other options are there apart from buying one? We asked what you wanted to hear about in this episode of our podcast, and driving in Switzerland was one topic you suggested in our Facebook group, Switzerland for English speakers. We talk about why you might decide to get a car, and how leasing, hiring and car sharing works. Notes on this episode of Your British Guide to Switzerland
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| 22 May 2018 | An utterly delightful royal wedding special | 00:13:08 | |
--- Send us your questions --- What drives someone who's not particularly interested in the monarchy to watch a full royal wedding? We found out this weekend as we switched our TV over to the BBC and soaked up the atmosphere in Windsor for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding, all from the safety of a Swiss chalet in the Bernese Alps. Notes on this episode of your 'British guide to Switzerland' podcastWho pays for a royal wedding? BBC's 'Reality Check' does a nice job of trying to break down the figures, albeit it without too much information at their disposal. And while we're on the topic... how does the Queen afford all those new dresses? Not everybody loves the Royal Family, and not everybody wanted to watch the wedding. Campaign group Republic launched a petition in advance of the big day to try and stop taxpayers' money being spent on the event. It had 32,000 signatures. And something we didn't hear mentioned during the festivities, but which was covered in the UK press beforehand, was how the homeless were having their property, including sleeping bags, put into storage before the wedding, while royalists camped out on the streets overnight to secure a spot to watch the day's events.
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| 20 Oct 2022 | Voting in Switzerland | 00:16:55 | |
--- Send us your questions --- After Jo got her Swiss passport it was time to step up and get her first real taste of Swiss democracy… and what better way to do it than going to vote in the regular Swiss polls in person. In this episode, we talk about how to vote in person or by post, and how to navigate political discussions with the Swiss. The Swiss and Chips vote Come and vote, we want to hear from you! Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German Our word in this episode: 'Gfröörli'.
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| 15 Jan 2019 | How to learn to ski as a complete beginner | 00:21:12 | |
--- Send us your questions --- If you're moving to Switzerland you might think that skiing will become a big part of your life: as a beginner that can either be really exciting or completely terrifying! However you feel about taking to the slopes, it's definitely something to try, or how will you ever know if you like it? Once you've decided to go for it, there are lots of things to consider before you even set foot in the snow.
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| 01 Dec 2022 | The must-know websites for Switzerland | 00:18:48 | |
--- Send us your questions --- It can take time to figure out what the useful websites are when you move to a new country. What are the most-popular car-sharing, price comparison, weather and buy-and-sell sites in Switzerland? We crowdsourced a list of the must-know websites in Switzerland from our Facebook group, Switzerland for English Speakers. In this episode we explain why they're useful and what we personally think of them. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
Learning Swiss German The word in this episode was "Sidäfin".
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| 28 Aug 2018 | Going to school in Switzerland: for kids and adults | 00:22:16 | |
--- Send us your questions --- Children in Switzerland walk to school alone. They go home at lunch time and there is no security at the school. A typical Swiss school day also contains some surprises compared to other countries and can be quite a revelation for expats new to Switzerland. In this episode, you'll get two different perspectives: what surprises expats in Switzerland about the schools and what a typical Swiss school day looks like (from someone who's actually been to one)! Plus, we discuss German language exams, and take a trip to a traditional Swiss sports festival. Notes on this episode of Swiss and Chips: Your British Guide to Switzerland
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