Get natural

Switzerland, in the heart of Europe, is the home to four cultures: Swiss-German, French, Italian, and Romansch. Here is where the Alps divide Europe and where tradition meets progress. Switzerland is a "country in miniature," where cities are a short train distance apart and where mountains are always easily accessible. And have I mentioned the Swiss Transportation System? Leave it to the Swiss to create such a smooth rail, boat, and bus system!

All the trains here are smooth, modern, and efficient down to the minute. Routes have been thought out, and the result is a system allowing you to travel the entire country without having to rent a car! How their postal services got into the business of being a bus system still baffles me, but the postal bus will take you into all the villages, even the little ones hanging on the side of the mountains. In the cities, trams get you from point A to point B quickly and safely. And with a Swiss Pass included in your travel package, you can utilize most of the public transportation system.

Wherever you go, you'll most likely find someone who speaks English. The Swiss are downright friendly and hospitable, and you'll soon fall in love with regional specialties such as raclette, fondue, and potato dishes. The cuisine is quite sophisticated and offers a wide variety, blending the Swiss cultural mix for truly fine dining.

While Switzerland blooms in natural beauty in the spring and summer, the Swiss love their winter! They are out enjoying winter sports and the welcoming winter sunshine. If you find yourself cooped up in the winter, visit Switzerland. The outdoor enthusiasm is contagious.

Because Switzerland is so compact, with such beautiful nature and cities, and because of its transportation system, it's an ideal destination for families. Train buffs will thrill in the independence and splendor of a scenic train rail package utilizing a complex itinerary. There are escorted tour options from spring to fall and ski tours operating in the snow season. And, if you've been meaning to escape for a stretch, consider renting an apartment or chalet for a week, or two, or three -- and take a long, unwinding holiday, the European way.
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And, if one country's not enough for you, Switzerland neighbors France, Italy, Austria, and Germany, all with a high-speed train connecting the countries.