issue 2/2019 helloswitzerland.com
SPECTACULAR HIKING TRAILS ber one m u n e h T ge and knowled source ion inspirat erland’s z for Swit tional interna ity n commu
ULTIMATE MUSIC FESTIVAL GUIDE TOP EVENTS DEALS & OFFERS SEE PAGES 18-19
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Dear readers, Summer is when Switzerland shines the most, so go out there and explore this amazingly beautiful country. Trade the city noise for the sound of cows and rivers, breathe in the freshly cut grass and summer flowers, simply be in the moment. Happy trails!
The adventure of a lifetime THIS IS HELLO SWITZERLAND
Irina Ghita, Editor
We are Hello Switzerland
Irina Ghita
Tonje Schou Teigland
Lukas Hayoz
Lina Vollmar
DISCOVER SWITZERLAND
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Go to www.helloswitzerland.ch for leisure and culture, what’s on and practical guides.
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FEATURED PARTNER: DISCOVER SWITZERL AND
SPECTACULAR HIKING TRAILS DISCOVER SWITZERLAND’S MOST POPULAR HIKING ROUTES Provided by: Switzerland Tourism Photo credits: © Switzerland Tourism
Gear up and let the hiking season begin! Take in the fresh air and marvel at Switzerland’s stunning hiking network. Read more about our top picks, 3 spectacular long distance trails to suit reluctant hikers, as well as passionate ones. From Switzerland’s oldest and most gentle hike, the Jura Crest Trail, to the wildest and most straining, the Alpine Passes Trail, pick your favorite trail and start exploring Switzerland’s amazing natural beauty. In the photo, on stage 21 of the Alpine Passes Trail, the beautiful Lac de Dix is revealed. Photo credits: © Switzerland Tourism/ Mátyás Fábián 6
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Here are our top picks for the most spectacular long-distance hikes in Switzerland, the gentle Jura Crest Trail, the classical Via Alpina Trail and the wild Alpine PassesTrail. Each hike spans over several stages. You will find detailed information on each stage so you can pick the stage(s) that appeal to you the most and start exploring.
JURA CREST TRAIL:
VIA ALPINA TRAIL:
ALPINE PASSES TRAIL:
THE GENTLE HIKE
THE CLASSIC HIKE
THE WILD HIKE
Established in 1905, this is Switzerland’s oldest hiking trail, linking Zurich and Geneva in a sweeping arc. Running through two linguistic regions, this long trail boasts beautiful views and a varied landscape.
This trail takes you once through the northern Alps of Switzerland in a series of 20 daily stages. Its 14 Alpine passes and great variety of Alpine culture, flora and fauna are the fuel of any hiking enthusiast’s dreams.
It takes an incredible 34 days to hike from Chur through the southern Alps to Lake Geneva. The spectacular mountain trail takes hikers over 32 passes.
With its 15 one-day stages, the Jura Crest Trail has much to offer. Here are some unmissable experiences: • Climb up the countless steps of the Roggenflue and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Swiss plateau (stage 4) • Hike up the Creux du Van before sunrise and experience the imposing rock cirque at dawn (stage 10) • Enjoy the view of the Lac de Joux from the Dent du Vaulion (stage 12).
Here are some unmissable experiences along this trail: • Enjoy the sunset on Engstlenalp, there is a wonderful mountain panorama (stage 9) • Discover the Sefinenfurgge descent (stage 12). The landscape here seems like a scene from Lord of the Rings, truly impressive. • Climb to Bunderchrinde Pass (stage 14) and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Kandersteg Valley and its beautiful lake, Oeschinensee, breathtaking!
Here are some unmissable experiences along this trail: • Hear the marmots whistle in the Greina Plateau (stage 4 & 5) • Take in the beautiful sights of the Balfrin Panorama Trail (stage 16): mountain peaks and snow-covered glaciers as far as the eye can see. • Reach Col de Prafleuri, the highest pass of the trail (stage 22). You can usually spot families of ibexes along the road.
Find more information about this trail:
Find more information about this trail:
Find more information about this trail:
MySwitzerland.com/juracresttrail
MySwitzerland.com/viaalpina
MySwitzerland.com/alpinepassestrail
Discover more spectacular hiking experiences throughout Switzerland on MySwitzerland.com/hiking Use this website in English to plan your perfect summer outing: MySwitzerland.com/expats For more travel infos and tips throughout Switzerland, please get in touch with expats@switzerland.com or phone 0800 100 200 TRAVEL INSPIRATION
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FEATURED PARTNER: RELOCATION
A SMOOTH DEPARTURE Are you planning to leave Switzerland? Are you preparing to move out? Are you concerned about paying for repairs you’re not liable for? And of course you want the best chance of getting your deposit back! From ending utilities and insurance contracts, handling the end cleaning of your apartment, selling your vehicle, deregistering from schools and other authorities – leaving Switzerland is a race against time and a logistical roller coaster.
The team of relocation experts at Packimpex will take the stress out of your departure. Leaving Switzerland is much more than just packing boxes and waving good bye. With so many logistical details to consider, you might need the keen eye and helpful support of a Relocation Expert. Packimpex has designed flexible departure support packages for every budget. Depending on your desired level of involvement, you can choose between several types of packages. Get in touch with Hello Switzerland today and find out which package best fits your needs.
Leave Switzerland hassle-free This is what our Relocation experts will do to make sure that happens: • Terminate your lease contract • Arrange your apartment handback • Arrange the end cleaning of your apartment • Accompany you at the apartment handback • Maximise your chance of getting your deposit back • Deregister on time from all necessary authorities • Handle repairs and viewings • Help finding new tenants. Why choose Packimpex? Packimpex has over 40 years’ experience in relocation. In the last ten years alone, they have helped over 8,000 customers move out of their property with peace of mind. Over 60 of the Top 100 Swiss companies entrust Packimpex with housing support for their key executives.
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No loose ends when leaving Switzerland Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) helpline@helloswitzerland.ch RELOCATION
Carole Javet is Head of Relocation Services at Packimpex. Carole and her team of relocation experts are here to assist you in all aspects related to your departure from Switzerland.
Packimpex Relocation Experts will handle any aspects of your departure from Switzerland, eliminate language barriers and, most importantly, guide you past potential pitfalls.
Book dependable departure support
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YOUR CONTACT: CAROLE JAVET
+41 58 356 17 77 helpline@helloswitzerland.ch
EVENTS May-June 2019 16 – 26 May
Food Zurich Zurich
Throughout the eleven days of FOOD ZURICH, more than 150 events celebrate the city as a culinary hotspot where connoisseurs, curious foodies and families all come together. In a nutshell: It’s a paradise for food aficionados of every shape, size and color. Dining and cooking events are popping up almost everywhere imaginable – in established restaurants but also in a tunnel, museums, castles, or even private homes.
bit.ly/HelloFoodZH2019 19 – 20 May
Chef Alps Zurich
Watch internationally renowned star chefs live on stage, get to know exceptional products in the market hall, meet fellow passionate foodies.
bit.ly/HeloChefAlps2019 25 May
SOLA RACE Basel
8 – 9 June
World Heritage Days 12 UNESCO sites in Switzerland
A weekend dedicated to the UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage sites. A chance to discover some of the most stunning natural wonders of Switzerland and also some of its most prized cultural treasures. Dive deep in prehistoric times at the perfectly restored lake dwellings in Latenium, explore the 8th century Abbey of St. Gall and its beautiful library (among the top 10 most beautiful libraries in the world!). Visit the beautiful Sasso Corbaro castle (shown in photo) in Bellinzona or travel by train on the breath taking Albula viaduct. Which amazing place will you choose?
Photo credits: ©WHES
bit.ly/HelloWHES2019
31 May – 2 June
10 June
European Rowing championship
Chasing Cancellara
Lucerne
Villars sur Ollon, Vaud
Lucerne has the honour of hosting this exclusive event.
Bike with Fabian Cancellara (or try to keep up) in a tough and beautiful race. The trail leads chasers over the passes Col de la Croix, Col des Mosses and Col du Pillon before they have to tackle the Col de la Croix for a last time.
bit.ly/HelloEuroRow2019 8 – 9 June Photo credits: ©SOLA
“The run that connects” old and young, company colleagues, men and women, professionals and one-day-runners. The SOLA relay race, covering a total of 80 kilometres is divided into 10 stages of 4.5 to 12 kilometres each. Start and finish area is located at ‘Park im Grünen’ in Münchenstein.
bit.ly/HelloSOLA2019
RECOMMENDED
Caves Ouvertes Vaudoises – Open Cellar Days Along the Montreux riviera
From Bonvillars to Chablais, from La Côte to Vully via Lavaux and Les Côtes de l’Orbe: six regions, six different types of climate, more than 300 unique discoveries. Have a wonderful day sampling the best wine in Switzerland.
bit.ly/HelloCaves2019
bit.ly/HelloCancellara
Discover more exciting events on:
www.helloswitzerland.ch/events
EVENTS June-August 2019 13 – 16 June
14 July
17 August
Basel city, Messe
Rigi
Sierre, Salgesch and surroundings
Art Basel is the world’s leading fair for modern and contemporary art. This year, 291 of the world’s leading galleries will show the works of over 4,000 artists. A full program of artworld talks takes place each day. Exhibitions and events are also offered by cultural institutions in Basel and the surrounding area, creating an exciting, region-wide art week.
Schwingen, Jass and Hornussen are just a few new notions you discover as you dig deeper into Swiss culture. The first one, traditional wrestling, is a lot of fun.
Enjoy a delicious evening in the vineyard of the natural Finges Park. This event focuses on fun and conviviality. Tables are placed end to end in order to bring together as many people as possible. A wide choice of local products is served.
Art Basel
bit.ly/HelloArtBasel2019
Traditional Wrestling
bit.ly/HelloSchwingen2019 20 July
Gruyère Trail Charmey
bit.ly/HelloTavolata2019
Charmey, Fribourg
16 August
15 June
A very beautiful trail running competition. The small village of Charmey is quite picturesque.
Fribourg
bit.ly/HelloGTC2019
Tandem race The funny tandems are coming back 8 years after the last edition in 2004. During 12 hours amazing tandems will race in the old Town!
bit.ly/HelloTandem2019 29 June
49th Trout Festival
Tavolata
26 – 28 July
International Alphorn Festival Nendaz, Valais
Alphorn blowers from the entire world descend on Nendaz for the International Alphorn Festival. An authentic festival.
Taste of Zermatt Zermatt
Eighteen Zermatt chefs with 255 Gault&Millau points – more than anywhere else – invite you to a kitchen party on Friday at the Mont Cervin Palace and Grand Hotel Zermatterhof. Culinary chalets along the” Bahnhofstrasse” offer and inform about regional products.
bit.ly/HelloKitchenParty2019
bit.ly/HelloAlphorn2019
Pfäffikon, Zurich
We have to thank our contributor, TAK Erzinger for bringing this lovely festival to our attention. Read her full account following the link below. The festival takes place on the shore of Lake Pfäffikon and it sounds simply delicious. As TAK Erzinger writes: ‘The art and precision lies in the fact that about every 20 minutes 150 blue trout are cooked in probably one of the biggest pans the world has ever seen. Here the fish swim in a secret recipe created in the southern climes of Europe and humbly accompanied by new potatoes dressed in a golden butter, lemon sauce.’
bit.ly/HelloTrout2019 28 – 29 June
Chasselas Worldwide Festival Aigle
Celebrate and taste some of the best wine in Switzerland. A feast for wine aficionados in the beautiful surroundings of Aigle Castle.
bit.ly/HelloChasselas2019
RECOMMENDED
Photo: © Matteo Verlicchi
18 July – 11 August
Fête des Vignerons Vevey
Vevey becomes the capital of Switzerland this summer, thanks to this exceptional feast that takes place ONCE every 25 years. This extraordinary event, which combines tradition and modernity, unites the entire region stretching from Lausanne to Chablais Vaudois. It has been inscribed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2016. Its theme, rewarding the winegrowers in the region, makes it an original and unique show. Legend has it that there is only one Fête des Vignerons every generation because of the time it takes the people of Vevey to recover from the last one. An absolutely unmissable event.
bit.ly/HelloFeVi2019
EXCLUSIVE RELOCATION HELPLINE DEALS
Free VIP fast track connection service and 50% off mobile plans Get connected with Swisscom quickly and easily by contacting the Swiss Relocation Helpline. We’ll handle all the admin for you for no extra charge. What’s more, benefit from this special offer only until 31 May 2019: switch from any Swiss prepaid and get a 50% discount on the subscription fee for 24 months. (Conditions apply: at least 6 months on a prepaid offer.)
inOne mobile Go
inOne mobile basic
Swiss mobile flat
Price per month
Price per month
Price per month
Instead of CHF 80 for 24 months
Instead of CHF 45 for 24 months
Instead of CHF 65 for 24 months
CHF 40
CHF 22.50
CHF 32.50
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
A worry free start for just CHF 90 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.
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Affordable storage options starting at just CHF 25 per month
90 days for CHF 90 and it includes all mandatory insurances required. Be well insured from day one!
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!
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
DEALS & OFFERS
Free relocation planning call from Hello Switzerland 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. 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.
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
Volvo Cars - amazing discounts for expats 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.
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
EXCLUSIVE RELOCATION HELPLINE DEALS
Free tax & social security briefing
Berlitz language courses 5% off
Banking services free for two years*
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.
Boost your language skills with the highly effective Berlitz method.
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.
After the briefing, you will receive a brochure explaining the Swiss tax and social security system.
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
Hello Switzerland community members receive 5% off for key language courses. Contact the Hello Switzerland Relocation Helpline for details.
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
As a Hello Switzerland customer you will get the Bonviva Silver Package for free for two years, worth CHF 360.
Book via our Swiss Relocation Helpline
*For detailed information regarding this offer, please see the legal disclaimer on p.24
CHF 20 off on your next coop@home purchase of min. CHF 200 Choose between an extensive choice of products at the same price as your local Coop store. Delivery is straight to your door, within the hour in most large cities in Switzerland.
60 free Catch-car minutes with our exclusive code Easy, affordable, ecological, independent and convenient: Catch a Car is a really cool way of car sharing. Find out more using the link below and claim your 60 free Catch-car minutes using our special code CATCHHELLO.
To benefit from this deal, simply enter the HELLO19-T code at the moment of payment.
Free advice The right partners The best deals YOUR ADVANTAGE Swiss Relocation Helpline
www.coopathome.ch
bit.ly/HelloCatch-a-car
Free advice from locals
Call: +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) Mail: helpline@helloswitzerland.ch
The Ultimate Summer Music Festival Guide
13 – 16 June
June-August 2019
bit.ly/HelloFestiNeuch2019
From classical music to heavy metal, from electronic to jazz, from hip hop to country music, whatever your fancy, be inspired by our handpicked events.
Blues n‘ Jazz
5 – 9 June
Caribana Lakeside Festival Nyon
Kick off festival season in style by the Lake Leman, while listening to Franz Ferdinand, Morcheeba or Robin Schulz among many others.
Festi‘neuch Neuchâtel
Patti Smith headlines the festival this year. Enjoy great music by the beautiful Lake Neuchâtel.
14 – 15 June
Rapperswil-Jona
A jazz lovers’ favorite, in its 21st year in 2019. Don’t miss Marius Bär’s concert – at only 25 he is a very special musician.
bit.ly/HelloBluesnjazz2019 14 – 15 June
Stars of Sounds Aarberg, Bern
A small, but lovely festival with top acts. Parov Stelar are headlining this year. among many others.
bit.ly/HelloStarsAarberg
28 – 30 June
Trucker & Country Festival Interlaken
Yeehaw! For 3 days feel the Wild West in Interlaken, with line dancers, country music and, of course, trucks. This will be a riot!
bit.ly/HelloTruckerfestival
20 – 22 June
28 June – 12 July
Hinwil
St. Gallen
7 – 10 June
Street Artists Festival
Rock legends like Def Leppard and Whitesnake are on the line up. Feeling nostalgic?
Ascona
bit.ly/HelloRockthering2019
Also known as the St. Gallen Cultural Festival, this festival has everything to melt the hearts of opera and ballet buffs. The stunning St. Gallen Abbey (a UNESCO World Heritage site) hosts some of the open-air performances.
bit.ly/HelloCaribana2019
Pantomimes, stage plays, dance performances, jugglers, tightrope walkers, fire eaters, musicians, clowns and many others. Over a hundred free performances fill the numerous small settings along the lakeside with a joyful atmosphere.
bit.ly/HelloStreetArtistsAscona 13 – 15 June
Greenfield Festival Interlaken
Switzerland’s biggest rock festival has quite an impressive line-up this year. Have a smashing good time with Slipknot and legendary Die Toten Hosen as headliners.
bit.ly/HelloGreenfield2019 13 – 15 June
B-Sides Festival Lucerne
Alternative music central. Let your inner hipster out and chillax.
bit.ly/HelloB-sides2019
Rock the Ring
20 – 23 June
Burning Mountain
St. Gallen Opera Festival
Zernez, Graubünden
bit.ly/HelloStGallen2019
Plunge into a friendly atmosphere at this festival of love, peace and art, surrounded by Swiss mountains.
28 June – 13 July
bit.ly/HelloBurningMountain
Montreux
20 – 29 June
Jazz Ascona Ascona
From traditional Jazz to blues, Ascona becomes a music oasis. Cool cats everywhere, welcome!
Montreux Jazz Festival It is still called a jazz festival, but it is more of a cultural phenomenon, featuring a multitude of musical styles and scores of different artists. Check out the free concerts at the spectacularly illuminated Parc Vernex or join the party boats on the lake.
bit.ly/HelloJazzAscona2019
bit.ly/HelloMontreuxJazz2019
27 – 30 June
4 – 6 July
Open Air St.Gallen
Stars of Sounds
St. Gallen
Murten, Fribourg
With Die Ärzte and Florence & the Machine as the headliners, make sure you get your tickets early!
The sister of the Aarberg festival has a beautiful setting and is headlined by Die Fantastischen Vier this year.
bit.ly/HelloOpenairSG
bit.ly/HelloStarsMurten
17 – 20 July
Gurten Festival Bern
Bern
bit.ly/HelloGurtenFest2019
bit.ly/HelloBuskers2019
Verbier Music Festival
Tropical Caliente Festival Zurich
Every year, Zürich is gripped by the Caliente fever. Check your salsa dancing skills on the Pista de Baile.
bit.ly/HelloCaliente2019 8 – 14 July
Davos Sounds Good Davos
The sound of New Orleans jazz in the Swiss mountains.
Buskers Street Music Festival
Chill on top of Bern, on the lovely Gurten mountain. Listen to Twenty One Pilots, Rudimental and Editors among many other cool acts.
18 July – 3 August
5 – 7 July
8 – 10 August
Peaceful Bern comes to life during this festival. Watch out for inspiring music and dance performers at every street corners.
10 August
Street Parade
Verbier
Zurich
Exquisite music in a majestic alpine setting. This prestigious classical music festival celebrates 26 years.
Hundreds of thousands will be dancing on the streets of Zurich. The Street Parade sparks an incredible party atmosphere with 30 love mobiles, hundreds of DJs and seven stages around Lake Zurich. It is the largest techno party in the world and an indisputable highlight of Zurich’s event calendar.
bit.ly/HelloVerbier2019 18 July – 6 September
Gstaad Menuhin Festival Gstaad
Now at its 63rd edition, the Gstaad Menuhin Festival is a spectacular classical music event.
bit.ly/HelloMenuhin2019 19 – 27 July
Blue Balls Festival Lucerne
bit.ly/HelloZurichStreetparade2019 14 – 18 Augustt
Rock Oz’Arenes Avenches
Scorpions and others will rock the huge open air Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in Europe.
bit.ly/HelloRockOzArenes2019
bit.ly/HelloJazzDavos2019
An amazing line up: Joss Stone, Katie Melua, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, Keziah Jones and many more. An absolute gem!
11 – 13 July
bit.ly/HelloBlueballsLucerne
Gampel, Valais
Frauenfeld
23 - 28 July
Another massive festival with eclectic music. Party on!
Simply the biggest hip-hop festival in Europe. Travis Scott and Cardi B are headliners this year.
Nyon
Openair Frauenfeld
bit.ly/HelloOpenairFrauenfeld2019 13 – 21 July
Moon and Stars Locarno
Listening to great music in an utterly romantic setting, among the famous Ticino palm trees. This festival is also called the “Montreux south of the Alps”.
bit.ly/HelloMoonandstars2019
Paleo
This is the biggest open air music festival in Switzerland. Expect rock music ‘royalty’ in the line up. This year The Cure are the headliners!!
bit.ly/HelloPaleo2019 2 – 4 August
Brienzersee Rock festival
15 – 18 August
Open Air Gampel
bit.ly/HelloGampel2019 16 August – 15 September
Lucerne Classical Music Festival Lucerne
Four weeks of more than 100 concerts: International classical music stars in the heart of Switzerland. A must for all classical music lovers!
bit.ly/HelloLucerneFestival2019
Brienz
Have a rocking good time next to one of the most stunning lakes in Switzerland.
21 – 24 August
bit.ly/HelloBrienzRock2019
Glattbrugg
Discover more exciting events on: www.helloswitzerland.ch/events
Zurich Open Air Lots of electronic and rock music in one of the coolest settings in Switzerland. The lineup is top notch.
bit.ly/HelloZurichOpenair2019
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
Taxes:Done! You can trust BDO to support you with expert advice on all matters related to your taxes. BDO tax advisors will answer all questions about tax and social security issues, including when and how to file a tax return. They will advise on your tax implications for foreign assignments and support you with tax planning and tax optimization.
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 22
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.
+41 58 356 17 77 @ bdo@helloswitzerland.ch
FEATURED PARTNER: EDUCATION
PARENTS GO BACK TO SCHOOL AT SIS MÄNNEDORF-ZÜRICH Every Spring, SIS Swiss International School Männedorf-Zürich invites parents to experience goal-oriented learning and teaching at SIS first-hand. For four days, it is the parents who have to hit the books and the students who take over as teachers at SIS. Provided by: Andrea Furgler, CEO of SIS Swiss International Schools Schweiz AG a year so parents can learn more about SIS’ educational concept. This works best if it is the children themselves who show their parents how we teach and learn at SIS,” explains Lisa Cummins, principal of SIS Männedorf-Zürich.
Goal-Oriented Learning
Children Teaching Parents How do you program a robot? How do you write a short poem and how do you draw various constructions using a pair of compasses? During SIS MännedorfZürich’s annual expo, answers to these and other questions were provided by the local team of experts: the students of SIS. It is the one time in the year when parents can get a more in-depth insight into what and how their children are learning at school. For a double lesson per class, students from all levels took over their teacher’s job – with flying colours. “We host an expo once
There is always a broad range of activities encompassing all subjects being offered at the expo. In every learning unit, students informed parents about the respective learning goals and which steps have to be taken in order to reach it. Exactly the same procedure is also followed in regular classes at SIS. “A distinctive feature of SIS is its focus on goal-oriented learning, which not only takes place in the main subjects but also in subjects such as music,” explains the principal.
When the Student Becomes the Master Students need to prepare intensively for the expo so that they are not only wellinformed about the learning goals but also in terms of their presentation skills. This allows them to proudly present what they have learned and impress their parents with their knowledge. English and German play equal roles in school communication at SIS – in the classroom and in all parts of day-to-day school life. During the expo, learning units
in both languages are offered, providing students the possibility to improve their language skills and, if necessary, help their parents out with a word or two in their two school languages. Events such as the expo strengthen SIS’ school community beyond the classroom and celebrate its unique bilingual learning environment. Learn more about the benefits of bilingual education at SIS today!
YOUR CONTACT: 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.
+41 58 356 17 77 @ helpline@helloswitzerland.ch
Request info on bilingual education Your child’s way to a bright future Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) helpline@helloswitzerland.ch LIVING IN SWITZERL AND
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FEATURED PARTNER: BANKING SERVICES
SWITZERLAND – WHERE CASH IS KING? In Switzerland, people often pay with cash. But don’t worry – you won’t need to get used to it. Card and mobile payment options are catching up fast. Above all: the Swiss app TWINT. Are you used to always paying by card or mobile? Don’t let yourself get confused by cash users in Switzerland: thanks to TWINT, the country’s fintech industry is catching up fast in this area.
TWINT: the Swiss standard With the TWINT app, Credit Suisse is providing a mobile payment solution that is completely free of charge for every user. Around 1.2 million people already registered and in just two years, TWINT became a standard payment method in Switzerland and therefore can be used almost everywhere, even at large retailers, both online and in-store.
Mobile Switzerland TWINT is a digital mobile solution for digital mobile users. Hence, the app can also be used at parking meters in over 50 localities across the country. Instead of looking for coins, simply scan a QR code and select the desired parking duration in the app. What’s more, if you leave the parking space earlier, you can reclaim your money for the remaining parking time. As of late, you can also pay with TWINT at SBB (Swiss Federal Railways/CFF) on SBB Mobile, SBB.ch or at ticket machines. TWINT’s opportunities already are wide-ranging, and its field of application is constantly being extended, while the network of Swiss banks provides the highest level of security. No wonder more and more people are turning to Switzerland’s digital cash.
You can find more information at: www.credit-suisse.com/twint
This is how you can pay cashless with TWINT: • Between private individuals • At parking meters • In e-commerce • At the cash register • At vending machines • At farm shops
Legal Notice: The reader acknowledges that 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 © Credit Suisse AG and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
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FINANCIAL ADVICE
FINANCIAL ADVICE
FEATURED PARTNER: L ANGUAGE 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
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.
YOUR CONTACT: ROXANA SCHWICKERT Roxana Schwickert, Center Director, 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 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 L ANGUAGE 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.
Top language instructors
Boost your language skills
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Free trial lessons
+41 58 356 17 77 @ helpline@helloswitzerland.ch
Speak with confidence
Arrange a free consultation appointment and take advantage of the
5%
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 27
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. Moreover, with this type of travel insurance other excursions, concert tickets and course costs are also covered. 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.
Get Swiss insurance right Expert advice for international residents in Switzerland Swiss Relocation Helpline +41 58 356 17 77 (regular rates) helpline@helloswitzerland.ch 28
INSURANCE ADVICE
HELLO SWITZERLAND WILL CONNECT YOU WITH SPECIALIST ADVISORS: Helvetia boasts more than 80 agencies throughout Switzerland. Contact Hello Switzerland and receive fast track access to insurance advisers in your region.
MARKUS G. SENN
ULYSSE FIORI 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.
+41 58 356 17 77 @ helpline@helloswitzerland.ch
Zug | Zurich | Luzern | Sursee
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