Anyone who has completed an apprenticeship in Switzerland should earn at least CHF 5,000 a month in full-time emplyment says the Swiss Trade Union Federation. It plans to launch a popular initiative to introduce this minimum pay level. Delegates … [Read more...]
News and Features
Swiss court clarifies shared custody and its financial consequences
Switzerland’s Federal Supreme Court has clarified the distinction between shared custody and extended visiting rights: each parent should normally provide more than 30% of a child’s regular care. A recent ruling explains how that share should be … [Read more...]
FILM: HOW TO ROB A BANK ***1/2 – much like “The Italian Job” or “Baby Driver”
13 November 2026 HOW TO ROB A BANK ***1/2 There are many blockbusters vying for success on the screens, but most of them are regurgitations of bombastic action franchises, produced just to make money for the Hollywood studios. Who cares about … [Read more...]
FILM: CLUB KID **** an amusing and touching tale of love and rehabilitation
6 November 2026 Some excellent films this week - the reviews will be short as there are too many releases just now…including the successful GIFF! (Geneva International Film Festival). CLUB KID **** Jordan Firstman has written, directed and … [Read more...]
Prison terms after Zurich riots
Two young Swiss men face prison after disturbances in Zurich’s District 4 on the night of October 31st and the morning of November 1st. Prosecutors issued summary penalty orders imposing unsuspended sentences of six and four months on November 3rd. … [Read more...]
Guides
6-step guide to hiring a cleaner in Switzerland
Brought to you by quitt.ch - No. 1 provider of registration and administration services for domestic help in Switzerland. 1. What do cleaners cost in Switzerland? Cleaners are expensive in Switzerland and good personnel are hard to find. Prices … [Read More...]
Language requirements for Swiss citizenship and visas – what you need to know
Brought to you by Swiss French School. On 1 January 2019, Switzerland’s federal government tightened and harmonised the rules on language requirements to qualify for some residence permits, B and C permits in particular, and … [Read More...]
Activities
Switzerland’s cow parade (désalpe/alpabzug) 2025 and its history
By Bill Harby What exactly is the alpine descent or désalpe / alpabzug? This article explores the event’s history and where to see it. In Switzerland, we know the clock will soon strike autumn when processions of cows crowned with flowers and … [Read more...]
Five gorgeous Swiss parks for contemplating autumn splendor
By Bill Harby Whether you prefer thickets of grand old trees, a formal English garden, or a pocket park, these five urban green spaces offer colourful ways to rustle through autumn leaves. Geneva: Park La Grange One minute you’re in bustling Geneva … [Read more...]
Montreux to Gruyères on the chocolate train. Switzerland’s most delicious trip.
By Bill Harby Sorry Willy Wonka, but you won’t want to eat your mode of transportation on The Chocolate Train tour. However, yes, before the day is out, you will taste delicious Swiss chocolate and cheese, and still have time to explore one of the … [Read more...]
