- Credit card payment are accepted almost everywhere
Switzerland uses Swiss franc instead of Euro. So
instead of carrying a stash of cash along, you will be happy to hear that
credit card payment are accepted almost everywhere. Switzerland is one of the
first few country in Europe to adopt go cashless system. Although there are
rare cases where we saw a Chinese restaurant in Mürren that says “accepts cash
only - Swiss, euro and USD” and a small chocolate shop that says “Credit
accepted with purchase above 15 Chf”. If you are worried, perhaps 50 Chf
cash will do.
You can even go cashless with transportation.
Download SBB Mobile app before you fly to Switzerland, familiar yourself with
the app and you can use it on the go. Now to my second point. SBB Mobile app.
2. Setting around in Switzerland
Swiss Mobile App
SBB recently launch a mobile app for passenger to
use. Queuing up to purchase your ticket might take up some time. With this app,
you can check the schedule, ticket fare and if the train will be crowded. The
best part of this app is that it allows you to purchase one way intercity
ticket. ie: Mürren to Bern via Interlaken. Train – Cable Car
Swiss pass
If you are planning to travel extensively in
Switzerland, you need to get one of the Swiss pass. If you are wondering which
pass to get, do the math. Generally, most people get the Half pass as there is
no validity but it depends on where you are planning to go. Here’s how Icalculate which Swiss pass suits me best
3. SIM card
There are three main communication company in Switzerland
- Swiss com, Sunrise and Salt (formerly orange). Initially we wanted to get
Swiss com because they have the most extensive network around Switzerland. We
were afraid that when we head up to the mountain, there is no connection for
navigation. However, we overheard a conversation and they recommended sunrise.
We end up going for sunrise because it’s cheaper. We got 20 Chf for 1GB of data
only, valid for 30 days.
4. Food & Beverages
Well known for the high cost of standard living in
Switzerland, most locals only eat out during special occasion. Be prepared to
pay for 25-30 Chf per pax for pizza and 10-15 Chf per pax for fast food
Beer is not exactly cheaper than water but one
restaurant that we went to charge 4 Chf for tap water. Beer cost around 5-7 Chf
so pick your drink or just drink before you visit the restaurant. & yes, tap water is free and safe
for drinking.
5. Going Green
The Swiss takes the
green business very seriously. Other than having different trash can for
recycling, household rubbish disposal are charged according to the waste one
consume. In Zurich its call Zuri-Sacke. This expensive and effective way not
only help to reduce waste, it helps them to “save" money. These bags can
be purchase in supermarket and post office. Lucky for tourist, they do not have
to purchase these bags. However, it is recommended to bring your own shopping
bag when you are out.
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