Remember that Switzerland is different: it is not part of the European Union, so EU laws, rules and money do not apply. (though GSM mobile phones work here as usual).

Business Hours:

Communications: email, Internet, mobile phone, land-line phone...even normal post! More...

Electricity: 220-240 volt AC, 50Hz. More....

Health: Swiss medical care is both public and private. Outdoor activities entail risks. Protect yourself! More...

Links: Other useful websites.

Money: Swiss francs (CHF, SF, FS, SFr), not Euros. Merchants may accept euros in payment, but you'll get your change in Swiss francs. More...

Passport: You'll need a valid passport to enter Switzerland.

Sales Tax/VAT: Value Added Tax of 7.6%. If you spend CHF400 or more in a shop, ask for a Global Refund Check and the tax will be refunded to you.

Tipping: Hotel and restaurant bills, taxi fares and most other service include a service charge so no tipping is necessary. Leave small-coin change in cafes, if you like. Tip luggage porters CHF2 per bag.

Tourist Information: Lots of it, well-delivered. More...