Fungai
Moving to a new continent is exciting but also scary.
Switzerland may be known for its pristine landscapes and efficient systems, but beneath the polished exterior lies a world of surprising cultural quirks that can shock newcomers. From bizarre festivals to privacy-invading trash inspections, here are seven shocking Swiss experiences that reveal the unexpected side of this alpine nation.
The Unexpected Value of Swiss Sunshine
In Switzerland, sunshine is treated like precious gold! As someone from Zimbabwe's sun-drenched landscape, I was shocked to see how a single ray of sunshine sends Swiss people rushing outdoors.
This weather obsession seemed strange at first, but now I've joined the sunshine-worshipping bandwagon too! The scarcity of sunny days in Switzerland makes them truly special events worth celebrating.
The Shocking Informality with University Professors
Calling university professors by their first name is absolutely unthinkable in many cultures, including mine where it would be considered disrespectful or even punishable. Imagine my shock when I had to address my professor simply as "Elisio"!
This casual approach to authority figures represents one of Switzerland's most surprising cultural differences for many international students.
The Jaw-Dropping Price of "Kalbsleberli" (Calf's Liver)
In Zimbabwe, calf's liver is among the most affordable meats available, but in Switzerland? The price is genuinely shocking!
Despite being far from home and craving this delicious meat, I'm forced to pay premium Swiss prices for something considered basic elsewhere. This price disparity perfectly illustrates Switzerland's unique economic reality for newcomers.
The Awkward Solarium Incident at the Gym
Swiss gyms often feature solariums, but my gym tour created an uncomfortable moment that highlights unconscious bias. When showing the facilities, the guide stopped at the solarium, looked directly at me, and remarked: "I'm sure you won't be needing that."
Though technically correct due to my melanin-rich skin, this assumption created one of those shocking cross-cultural moments that make you pause.
The Bizarrely Named "Cholera" Dish
Perhaps nothing is more shocking than discovering a traditional Valais specialty called "Cholera". As someone from a region where cholera represents a deadly disease, finding it on a menu is genuinely jarring!
Even after all those years in Switzerland, I still haven't mustered the courage to try this unfortunately named Swiss delicacy.
Surprising Conversations About Being Black in Switzerland
Before moving to Switzerland, I did not think too much about my skin color. Most people looked like me, after all.
Now, random encounters at bus stops often lead to strangers telling me about their friend from "some African country" or commenting on how "lucky" I am to be black. These well-intentioned but awkward interactions represent a shocking aspect of navigating Switzerland as a visible minority.
The Strangely Formal Train Etiquette
Swiss politeness can be shockingly rigid, especially on public transportation. Despite a train seat being visibly empty, you must explicitly ask "Ist dieser Platz frei?" (Is this seat free?) before sitting down.
Skip this formality, and you'll face an uncomfortable stare-down that will make you regret breaking this unwritten rule! This strict adherence to etiquette creates shocking moments for newcomers to Swiss culture.
These shocking aspects of Swiss life reveal the complex cultural tapestry beneath Switzerland's perfectly polished exterior. For visitors and new residents alike, understanding these quirks is essential to navigating Swiss society successfully.
Dimitri Burkhard
Alessandra
Lisa Rowlands
