Switzerland
It is difficult to describe a typical menu plan of a family in Switzerland because the food is influenced by many different regions. Well known and typical food would have to include cheese dishes such as Raclette and Fondue, the Cervelat (a sausage), Birchermüesli (a mix of joghurt, fresh fruit and oats), or simply cheese and bread. There are many delicious varieties of cheese from the various regions in and around Switzerland.
The traditional Swiss culture contains a lot of folklore, singing (Jodelling) and dancing in traditional costume. In addition, Switzerland has many, many associations, in which the people invest a lot of time free of charge. The Swiss are very conscientious people, who believe in their country.
Thanks to the lack of polution and the degree of protection inforced by the authorities, Switzerland enjoys a great variety of greenery. This includes lots of forrests and pine trees, swamps, and lakes and rivers. The mountains are of course also fascinating, with vegetation and animals typical of that region. Don't forget the very famous and delicate Edelweiss. In the south of Switzerland, mainly in Tessin, you will even see palm trees, it is very mediterranean.
Switzerland enjoys a democracy. The political situation is very stable.
The most well known agreement in the history of Switzerland was recorded by a German: Friedrich Schillers- Willhem Tell. The drama tells the story of the hero of Switzerland, that stands up against the Austrians and is responsible for the foundation of the first three Kantons: Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. Gradually the number of Kantons has grown, and today we have 26 Kantons altogether. Since the era of William Tell, Switzerland has been able to avoid getting into wars or other crises, and has been able to develop into a stable and wealthy country.
There are many leisure activities to do in Switzerland. Walking is a very popular past time amongst the Swiss, as is bicycle riding, and in winter, skiing und snowboarding in the many winter resorts. In summer it is very popular to go swimming in the lakes and rivers in and around the country. They are always very clean. Fishing and sailing is also popular. Switzerland has many museums, and exhibitions. There is something for everyone.
This landlocked country in the heart of Europe is just waiting for you, and is extremely versatile. The regions of Switzerland differ not only in the languages they speak, but also in their character, architecture and climate. High mountains, wide spaces with rivers and lakes, small traditional villages and cities - that's Switzerland. The surface area of Switzerland is small, but the variety of things to see and do is almost unlimited.
