American teen going to live in Switzerland. What should I know?

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momee

If you want the most from experience meet the locals. Stay away from tour groups. Try to blend in. Don't wear brightly colored and skimpy atire. Most Swiss will try to communicate with you if you try. Learn at least the basics for the region you will be in, Raising your voice or spelling in English will just get you ignored.
The chocolate is sweeter. The strawberries and steaks are smaller, The yogurt is just plain better. Horseback riding is Enlish style, but most of the horses are trained to respond to German voice commands.
If anyone asks, tell them you're Canadian, aye.
Pack light . Experience all of the culture you can, and keep a journal .

serf

They make cheese that goes well with ham on rye.

sublime_DMG

europeans are pretty similar to urban americans but they're more...... metrosexual.

one more thing. everyone will look alike. there are very little "minorities" and there is no diversity.

jrr_hill

My experience with the Suisse is: Switzerland is for the Swiss. Kinda like the difference between a Yankee and a damn Yankee.

yarnladyisback

It looks like you are going to have to look around to get some useful informaion. Try here:
http://switzerland.isyours.com/e/guide/index.html

hathaway2k

Dont say anything about liking it here in America, also dont mention that you think our president is doing a decent job running the country. Europeans are used to people only having distrust and malcontent for their governments and countries. Nationalism is not fashionable.

jonfca

Depending on which part of Switzerland you're going to be living in, people there will speak Swiss German, French, or Italian.
If you took German in school, it won't be very useful to you at first as Swiss German is very different from standard German (so much so that many Germans cannot understand Swiss people at all).
Also you should know that it's a pretty rich country, and is therefore relatively expensive.
While you're there try some fondue and raclette, which are beloved party meals in Switzerland.

magerious

You should know how to speak at least German, preferably Swiss.

Otherwise, just keep your eyes and mind open, listen to the people, and form your own opinions. Such a great opportunity for you, make sure you see all of Europe, and Switzerland, while you are there. And take LOTS of photos.

jessicalangeslover

Dont drive on the wrong side of the road.

halltristan

shave your legs!

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