Are you planning a vacation to Switzerland? On the Holidays to Switzerland travel podcast you'll get practical tips and advice from Swiss travel experts to help you plan your dream trip to Switzerland. Your host, Carolyn Schönafinger, the founder of HolidaysToSwitzerland.com and a Swiss travel expert, shares the best places to visit in Switzerland based on her experiences, along with all the Swiss travel tips she has gathered over 30 years and on dozens of visits, for planning a trip to Swit ...
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How to plan your perfect Swiss adventure on the Gotthard Panorama Express
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Planning a trip to Switzerland can be overwhelming. With so many beautiful places to see, how do you ensure you're choosing the best experiences that make every moment count? Today, we’re going to uncover the lesser-known yet breathtaking Gotthard Panorama Express. This unique travel experience combines a relaxing boat cruise on the picturesque Lak…
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How to respect local customs and etiquette on your Swiss vacation
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Are you dreaming of visiting Switzerland but feeling unsure about the cultural norms and etiquette? As a visitor in a foreign country, it's natural to worry about unintentionally offending locals or committing social faux pas. In this episode, I chat with Kathrin Spinnler, who was born and raised in Switzerland, to get her expert advice on navigati…
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15 FAQs about train travel in Switzerland answered
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Are you planning to see scenic Switzerland by train? In this episode, Carolyn answers 15 of the most frequently asked questions by travellers who plan to travel Switzerland by train. If you’ve ever wondered if there are weight limits for luggage on Swiss trains, or have asked ‘do Swiss trains have toilets?’, these questions and many more will be an…
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Mount Stanserhorn: Add this mountain peak in Switzerland to your must-visit list!
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Are you ready to ride on the world's first and only open-air double-decker cable car? Join us in this episode as Carolyn chats with Lena Häfelfinger to learn all about visiting Mt. Stanserhorn. Lena shares the many reasons to visit the mountain which include great views over Lake Lucerne, hiking, learning about the local flora and fauna, and dining…
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Visiting Switzerland? Add these 5 stunning waterfalls to your Switzerland itinerary
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Let's go in search of five of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland! In this episode, our guest, Melinda Schoutens, joins us to tell us about some of her favourite Swiss waterfalls. Each of these breathtaking waterfalls in Switzerland are easily reached by public transport - or on foot if you enjoy a hike - and will be a highlight of your Sw…
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World record experiences for your Switzerland vacation
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It may be the incredible scenery of mountains and lakes that has made visiting Switzerland a high priority for you but the country is also famous for its engineering prowess. In fact, Switzerland is home to many examples of pioneering innovation and design - many of which are world firsts - that you may like to include in your Swiss vacation. In th…
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Visiting Schilthorn Piz Gloria for 360 degree views of the Swiss Skyline
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In this episode, Carolyn chats with Alan Ramsay from Schilthorn cableways to learn more about the new Schilthorn construction project that is currently underway. Alan also discusses the various ways to reach the Schilthorn, what to do at the Schilthorn and the intermediate stations, and how you can enjoy a delicious brunch in the Piz Gloria revolvi…
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Uncovering the delights of the Emmental Valley
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Hana Hurabova. With over a decade living and exploring Switzerland, Hana has become a true Swiss local. Her extensive knowledge on exploring Switzerland has attracted attention from other travellers looking for help with their travel planning. Hana shares with us one of her favourite, largely undiscovered, part…
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Top Swiss travel tips for 2024
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In this episode, Carolyn shares her top 10 Swiss travel tips for 2024. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or it’s your first time visiting Switzerland, these tips will help you to plan, book and experience your dream vacation in Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: Why you should consider travelling out of peak season When you should book your…
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Things to do in Zurich beyond the tourist trail
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Seraina Engert, a Zurich local who loves exploring the city she calls home. Seraina shares her favourite things to do in Zurich including places to visit in Zurich that are mostly only visited by locals. You can expect to hear about fantastic views over Zurich, wonderful flea markets and interesting funky bars.…
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Discovering rails, trails and hidden gems on a Switzerland Alps vacation
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andrea Caspani from Echo Rails and Trails. Andrea chats about the company's signature 12 day Swiss Alps Grand Rail Tour, an all inclusive Switzerland vacation by train. This Swiss guided tour includes visits to the most popular destinations, features beautiful panoramic train rides and breathtaking mountain exc…
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Switzerland’s Hidden Charms: Exploring Enchanting Villages
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Are you yearning to explore the tranquil and enchanting villages of Switzerland? In this episode we are joined by Kevin Quattropani, the founder of the Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland Association. Kevin takes us on a journey through some of his favourite villages, offering a unique perspective on Switzerland beyond the bustling cities of Bas…
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Scenic Swiss train routes to discover in 2024
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In this episode we welcome back regular guest, Andy Nef, who brings us up to date with changes to some of the Swiss rail products for 2024. Andy also shares some lesser-known scenic train and bus routes in Switzerland that you might like to consider including in your itinerary. Listen now to learn about: Price increases for rail travel and the Swis…
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How to travel sustainably in Switzerland
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Simon Bosshart, Head of Markets East and member of the management board of Switzerland Tourism. Simon shares why everyone travelling in Switzerland should travel responsibly and as sustainably as possible. He also shares what every traveller can do to make a difference in travelling responsibly and sustainably.…
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The Grand Explorer Tour of Switzerland: an unforgettable small group journey
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When it comes to choosing how to travel around Switzerland, renting a car or travelling by train are the two options you’ll likely consider. These modes of transport are fantastic for folks who like to travel independently but for travellers who would rather not have to worry about driving or adhering to train timetables, a small group tour is a wo…
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How to use public transport in Switzerland
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Would you like to travel Switzerland by train? If you’re not a regular public transport user, the idea of hopping on and off trains in a foreign country and understanding how the public transport system works can be a bit intimidating. Your fears will be put to rest in this episode as our guest, Andy Nef from Swiss Travel System, shares all the inf…
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Discovering the many charms of canton Valais
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Mario Braide and Emilie Morard as they share details about the spectacular region of Valais. From breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and charming villages, to natural and man-made attractions and traditional festivals. There’s something to suit the interest of every traveller visiting Valais. Listen now to…
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Trip Report: Visiting Switzerland with Kids
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In this episode Carolyn is joined by Carrie Nicholes who recently returned from a family trip to Switzerland. Although they only had five days to spend in Switzerland, Carrie was able to plan a trip that included visiting a variety of locations. Carrie's Swiss vacation included activities that both the adults and children enjoyed, creating wonderfu…
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How to plan your Switzerland itinerary
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In this episode Carolyn shares with us the tools and resources she uses to plan her Swiss itinerary and how to decide which places to visit. She also shares some classic itineraries for first time travellers to Switzerland and tells us the three main ways to book you trip. Listen now to learn about: Step by step guide on how Carolyn plans her Swiss…
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Matterhorn Alpine Crossing - Connecting Switzerland and Italy by cable car
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In this episode we are joined by Claudia Wyss from Zermatt Cableways. Claudia shares with us all the details about the new Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the recently opened cableway connection between Zermatt in Switzerland and Cervinia in Italy. Listen now to learn about: Everything about the new Matterhorn Alpine cable car crossing What the trip fr…
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Visiting Switzerland in Fall (Everything you need to know)
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Fall (autumn) is an underrated but perfect season to visit Switzerland. Join us as, together with Simon Bosshart from Switzerland Tourism, we explore the many reasons to visit Switzerland in fall. We discuss the weather, the festivals and events that take place and why fall is the ideal time of year to visit Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: …
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Top short breaks and day tours from Zurich
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Our guest in this episode is Amanda Wee from Best of Switzerland Tours. Amanda tells us about the most popular day and multi-day tours that are available from Zurich. Popular tours include mountain excursions and tours that visit picturesque rural areas of Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: The most popular mountain day trips Other tours that …
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8 amazing experiences to include in your Switzerland vacation
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In this episode, Carolyn shares 8 fantastic new experiences she has enjoyed on her recent visit to Switzerland. Over the course of nearly a month, Carolyn explored vast areas of Switzerland. From mountain peaks near Lucerne to breathtaking lake trips in Brienz, she had the most wonderful trip to date. Listen now to learn about: Tamina Therme, a pop…
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Tips for planning your excursion on the nostalgic Brienz Rothorn Bahn steam train
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In this episode, our guest Dominique Horne from Brienz Rothorn Railways tells us all about Switzerland's only daily steam train, the Brienz Rothorn train. Dominique shares the history of the steam railway and tells us why visitors to the Berner Oberland should consider including a ride on the train in their itinerary. She also has some handy tips t…
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Lugano Region - The Swiss Region with Italian Flair
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In this episode, we are joined by Daniela Gugliotta Bagaian from Lugano Region Tourism. Daniela tells us all about the fantastic Lugano Region and all the things you should experience while you are there. Located in the southern part of Switzerland and right next to the Italian border, Lugano shares a lot of Italian culture, making it a unique dest…
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4 fantastic (and easy) hikes to enjoy in Switzerland
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In this episode, we are joined by Melinda Schoutens, an avid hiker and the author of the Fresh Air Kids Switzerland book series that inspires readers to connect with nature. Melinda has lots of great tips and practical advice for anyone planning to enjoy a hike in Switzerland. She tells us what we need to do to prepare for a hike and shares with us…
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Bernina Express Train Switzerland: From Glaciers to Palm Trees
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In this episode, we are joined by Camille Härdi from Rhaetian Railways, operators of the premium panoramic train known as the Bernina Express. The Bernina Express is one of the great train journeys of the world and it connects Chur and St. Moritz in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. Camille has lots of great info to share with us including the high…
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Discovering the hidden gems of the Interlaken Holiday Region
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In this episode, we are joined by Renato Julier from Interlaken Tourism. Renato tells us about all the wonderful things to do in the Interlaken Holiday Region, including its beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Listen now to learn about: Why Interlaken attracts so many tourists Things to see and do around Lake Brienz and Lake Thun Hidden gem…
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A winter family vacation in Switzerland
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In this episode, we are joined by Nicole Riede who recently went on a trip to Switzerland with her family of four during winter. Nicole shares lots of great tips about what to expect while travelling during the winter season. She also shares her family's itinerary and the highlights from their trip. After listening to this episode, you'll be adding…
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Mt. Pilatus - the mythical mountain on Lucerne’s doorstep
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Manuela Blapp, a market manager representing Mt. Pilatus to travellers around the world. Manuela chats about all the highlights of visiting Mt. Pilatus and the various ways you can reach the summit of the 'Dragon Mountain'. She also shares lots of helpful information to help make your trip to Mt. Pilatus an unf…
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How to choose the best Swiss rail pass for your trip
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Amanda Kendle, who’s having trouble choosing the right Swiss rail pass for her trip to Switzerland. Amanda is not alone - choosing the best rail pass is something that many travellers to Switzerland struggle with. In today's episode, Carolyn provides an overview of the different rail passes available to visitor…
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Where to stay in Switzerland
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In this episode, Carolyn shares the many accommodation options available to visitors to Switzerland. These include the usual options like hotels, hostels and apartments as well as bed and breakfasts and camping. There are some unique accommodation options available, too. Listen now to learn about: Things to consider before deciding where to stay Be…
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Four seasons in Switzerland - When is the best time to visit?
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In this episode, we are joined by Birgit Weingartner who will help you choose the ideal time to visit Switzerland. Every season offers new wonders for every traveller, from winter-ending traditions in Spring, various music festivals in the summer, to the alpine descent tradition in Autumn, every season is filled with interesting traditions, customs…
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Explore Switzerland with a Swiss rail package
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In this episode, we are joined by Fabian Bryner from Switzerland Travel Centre. Fabian tells us about the different rail packages available for travellers visiting Switzerland. These packages are tailor-made to fit every traveller, and include all train tickets and accommodation, making them extremely convenient for everyone. Make sure you keep lis…
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10 top experiences to enjoy in Switzerland
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In this episode, we are joined by Nick Taylor who is a member of our Switzerland Travel Planning Facebook group. Nick and his wife have been frequent visitors to Switzerland for many years and in this episode Nick share's his top 10 Swiss experiences with us. They include a variety of train rides, hikes and other experiences in destinations in all …
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Journey across Switzerland on the Glacier Express
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In this episode, we are joined by Gabriele Aberle from Matterhorn Gotthard Railway. Gabi walks us through all the details travellers should know about the world-famous Glacier Express train journey. This journey features breathtaking panoramic views and is a bucket list trip for many visitors to Switzerland. Do you dream of riding aboard the Glacie…
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Tips for planning your 2023 trip to Switzerland
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2023 promises to be the year many listeners will finally be able to visit (or revisit) Switzerland . To help you prepare for your Switzerland trip, in this episode of the podcast I share my tips for securing your preferred accommodation and transport, give you an update on the different Swiss transport passes for 2023 and some ideas to consider if …
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Fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region with kids
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Isabelle Rapisarda from Jungfrau Region Tourism. Isabelle tells us about the many fun activities that families can enjoy in the region. From mountain carts and scooter rides, to adventure playgrounds, summer toboggan rides and marble runs, there are plenty of fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region for kids. Li…
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Swiss Train News and Updates for 2023
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andy Nef from the Swiss Travel System. Andy shares all the latest news and updates on the Swiss Travel System, including the brand new GoldenPass Express. He also provides an update on Swiss Travel Passes for 2023. Listen now to learn: Train timetable changes Night train services News and information about the …
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Christmas in Switzerland: Cookies and Customs
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andie Pilot, a pastry chef, food writer and cookbook author. While being Canadian-Swiss she is still very rooted in Swiss traditions and culture from baking traditional Swiss cookies to enjoying wonderful Swiss advent season traditions. Listen now to learn: Swiss Christmas traditions and customs How and when th…
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The many advantages of taking a private tour in Switzerland
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Catharina De Sa who is the founder and owner of a Swiss Epic Tours, a company that offers private tours for travellers from around the world. Catharina can design tailored made private tours to fit all your needs, from single day to multi-day tours. The private tours offered by Swiss Epic Tours are ideal for tr…
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Engelberg and Mt. Titlis - Home of glacier adventures and incredible views
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Peter Niederberger who has lived most of his life in a majestic Swiss town called Engelberg. Peter fell in love with his beautiful surroundings at a young age and he joins us today to tell us about the many things to see and do in Engelberg and its home mountain, Mt. Titlis. If you'd love to explore the beauty …
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Things to Do in Lucerne: The City, The Lake, The Mountains
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Celine Deplazes from Lucerne Tourism to learn all about the history and must-see places in the Lake Lucerne region. Celine was born and raised in the region and now calls the city of Lucerne home and she generously shares her local knowledge and tips for visiting the Lake Lucerne region with us. Listen now to l…
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Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn - Which mountain should you visit?
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Two of the best mountain excursions in the Jungfrau Region are Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn. Both will leave you with lasting memories from your visit but if you only have the time or the funds to visit one, how do you choose? In this episode you'll learn what each excursion entails so you can choose the one that's right for you. Listen to discover:…
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What to Expect When You Visit Switzerland in Winter
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Seraina, a Swiss local who was born near Zurich. Whilst the Swiss borders were closed during the pandemic, avid traveller, Seraina, started exploring her own country and is here to tell us what to expect when you visit Switzerland in winter. Listen now to learn: How unpredictable the weather can be How to get a…
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Fun and Free Things To Do In Geneva
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In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Chris, an American who has been living in Geneva for the past 18 months. Chris' mission is to share free and inexpensive things to do in Geneva and in this episode she shares parts of Geneva that you won’t find on Instagram or in regular travel guides. Listen now to learn: Where to find amazing 360 views of Gen…
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Insights and Updates from my recent Switzerland vacation
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In this episode, Carolyn shares her highlights and insights from her recent trip to Switzerland. There are also updates on a number of new experiences she enjoyed for the first time. Listen now to learn: Carolyn's itinerary The highlights of Carolyn's trip Carolyn's thoughts on the Swiss Travel Pass Her thoughts on the Regional-Pass Berner Oberland…
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Magical Places in Switzerland to include in your itinerary
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Visiting some of the lesser-known places when you travel is always a highlight. Just because a town is not as well known doesn't mean it isn't as attractive as its more famous neighbours. In this episode of the podcast, Livio Goetz from Switzerland Tourism tells us about eight of his favourite towns and villages that are featured on a new list of 5…
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Magnificent Matterhorn Excursions from Zermatt
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With what is probably the world’s most recognisable mountain as its backdrop, it’s not surprising that Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations. Whilst there’s hardly a spot in Zermatt where you can’t see the Matterhorn, to get even better views, there are a number of mountain excursions you can take - each offering a diffe…
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Visiting St. Gallen and Bodensee
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Most visitors to Switzerland head to the hot spots of Zurich, Lucerne, the Jungfrau Region and Zermatt, and all are worthy destinations. There are lesser known destinations that are worth a visit, too, and one such place is St. Gallen, Switzerland's eighth largest city. In this episode, I'm joined by Toby Treichler, Deputy Director of St. Gallen Bo…
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