Multi-cultural Switzerland

Swiss culture is hard to define. It is clearly a westernized culture, with highly developed technology, transportation and education standards. Yet some of us find the lifestyle here a bit old-fashioned and charming, in comparison to our own homelands.

There are four national languages, but to complicate things, there are a variety of dialects within these languages. Furthermore, our German, Italian and French neighbors also influence aspects of Swiss culture. You find these influences in the food, the styles, and the local customs. With so many variables, what exactly makes a Swiss a Swiss? And how can we as expats fit into this jigsaw puzzle?

The Swiss themselves seem generally proud to be a culture all their own. One might say that a patriotic love of local freedoms, democratic ideals, and a respect for the varied landscapes serve to unite the cantons. The local people are well versed in knowledge of their land, and they travel keenly around this beautiful country.

To offer an expatriate point of view on this small jewel of a nation, we asked mothers from the three main cultures (German, French, and Italian) of Switzerland to weigh in. Here is what they have to say about their adopted homes.

Life in German-speaking Switzerland

> Life in German-speaking Switzerland
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> Life in Ticino

Text by Mary Bider

Photo by Tanya Deans