FAQs

Question

What is the language in Switzerland?

Answer

Switzerland borders multiple countries including France, Germany, and Italy. Based on the region within Switzerland, the official language may be French, German, Italian, and/or Romansh. In Lausanne, Geneva, and the wedding venue locations, the official language is French, and many people also do speak English. Train and hotel staff will almost certainly speak English, as will staff in 80% of restaurants. In grocery stores and pharmacies however, you may find fewer English speakers.

Question

How does power work in Switzerland?

Answer

Outlets are 230 volts (V) / 50 Hz. This means that tea kettles and irons heat up nice and quickly in Switzerland. But, it's different than US power, so there are a few things to think about when you power US devices. The first thing to note is that the wall outlet is a different shape, and this means you will need a "Type C" to US adapter, similar to these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09V5G925P. Most adapters like these only convert the shape of the plug however, not the voltage, but this is usually ok for devices like laptops and smartphones. Before plugging in a US device, to be safe, you should always read the fine print on your power supply. "Input: 100-240V" means you're good to go with Swiss 230V power. "Input: 120V" (and nothing else) means don't plug it in! Be careful in particular with US hair dryers and curling irons, as these are usually 120V only and may malfunction or even melt with Swiss power.

Question

What are some helpful apps?

Answer

A few of our favorites are listed below (available for both iPhone and Android): "SBB Mobile": Purchase tickets for any train, bus, subway, paddlewheel boat (!), funicular (!!) right from your phone. "MeteoSwiss": Predicting weather in the Alps is hard, even for Google. Thankfully the Swiss have their own weather app. "Google Translate": After installing, select "French" and "Download" to store the language model on your phone. "Uber": App rides for major Swiss cities, including Lausanne and all wedding venue locations.

Question

Where can I get a quick bite or coffee?

Answer

If you want something on the go, the supermarkets are your friend! Go to any Coop or Migros which has a variety of ready-made sandwiches, salads, hot meals, fresh baked bread, as well as hot coffee for a reasonable price - and lots of cheeses and chocolates. Note however that most supermarkets are closed on Sundays and after 6 or 7 pm. The model is to have supermarkets with earlier closing times, compared to the US, but to have a whole lot of them. Usually you can find a supermarket every 2-3 blocks or so. If you'd like to do a little food shopping later in the evening or on a Sunday, you can also go to a "Coop Pronto" or "Migrolino", which are usually found in train stations. In Lausanne, in addition to the Coop Pronto in the station, there is also one near the lake.

Question

Where can I find toiletries and medicine?

Answer

Pharmacies are your friend! Look for the flashing green cross sign in many areas. Also after normal hours and on Sundays, the "Pharmacie Sun Store" or "Amavita" in most train stations should be open. There is a Pharmacie Sun Store in the Lausanne station.

Question

Is Switzerland dangerous?

Answer

Switzerland is a very safe, clean country where people live long, healthy lives. And two of the most wonderful aspects are the fast, clean trains and the beautiful views. That said, those two specific features can present some unique safety issues to keep in mind. If you're in a train station, please really do stand back from the edge of the platform and make sure children are doing the same. Those trains can come through quickly and unexpectedly! Also, in places with scenic vistas, ramps can be a little steeper than in the US and there might not be as much protective railing in outdoor locations with fall hazards. So please watch your step while enjoying the view.

Question

Is it ok to drink the water?

Answer

Definitely. :) The little town across the lake from Lausanne is Evian. Flowing from almost any tap, you have water from the Alps.

Question

Do I need to tip at restaurants?

Answer

It is not customary to normally tip at a restaurant or bar Switzerland, and it may not even be an option if you pay by card. One waiter described it in this way: "Of course we do accept tips, like anyone, if you had a really wonderful time. But we are paid well, and when we don't receive a tip, we will still assume that we did a good job and that you enjoyed your stay."

Question

Did my waiter forget to bring the check?

Answer

At restaurants and coffee shops, it's considered rude for the staff to suggest that patrons should leave by bringing them the check at the end of the meal. So, when you are ready, you will probably have to get the attention of the waiter and ask them for the check.