Switzerland, with its picturesque landscapes and unique atmosphere, attracts tourists from all over the world. One of the most charming corners of this country is Davos, a resort town famous for its ski resorts and cultural events.
How to communicate with locals and not offend anyone? What interesting traditions does Davos hide and what forms the rich cultural heritage of the region. In this article, we will answer these questions, consider the key aspects of the local culture of Davos, which will help you better navigate this amazing city and enrich your travel experience.
General rules of conduct
Let's start with the basics. The Swiss value their personal space and peace very much, and this should be taken into account when in public places such as cafes, shops or transport. Try to speak quietly and avoid sudden movements. Wherever you are, it is important to be polite, giving those around you the opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere. Excessive noise can be perceived as disrespect.
In addition, in Switzerland and Davos, cleanliness is considered one of the highest values. You may notice that public spaces, streets and parks are well-kept and tidy. So try to respect this culture. Use special waste containers and sort waste if possible. You may also notice that many residents prefer to carry their own bottles and coffee cups to reduce the amount of waste. But we will talk about this in more detail in another section of the article.
Take part in local celebrations and events in the Davos area - this is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore the schedule of events, such as local festivals, exhibitions or sports competitions. Take an interest in Swiss cuisine, try national dishes such as fondue or rösti, and perhaps you will enjoy traditional music too.
There are no special requirements for clothing. Davos is famous for its ski slopes and alpine trails, so the choice of clothing will depend on the time of year. The winter months require good thermal protection and specialized ski equipment to enjoy all the activities on the snow. Summertime offers the opportunity to choose light and breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes for long walks and alpine excursions, which will ensure your comfort during your hikes.
Don't forget about quiet time either. In the evening hours, it is especially important to respect the peace of your neighbors and other vacationers. This will not only help create a comfortable atmosphere for everyone, but also give you the opportunity to enjoy the silence of the alpine nature.
And the last point is tips. The Swiss culture regarding tipping is different from many countries. In most cases, the price already includes a service charge, but if you felt the attention and care from the waiter or service worker, leaving a small amount - from 5 to 10% of the bill - will show your gratitude and respect.
How to greet and interact with locals
Meeting new people in Switzerland involves a variety of greetings, which can vary depending on the region and level of acquaintance. Women usually greet men with three kisses on the cheek, starting with the right, but this form of greeting is usually reserved for a certain amount of intimacy. At first meetings, especially in more formal settings, a handshake is traditional. It is important to look the other person in the eye and smile.
When it comes to greetings, it is often the older person in the conversation who sets the tone, suggesting the best course of action. You will be able to tell when someone leans in for a greeting kiss, or introduces themselves by name, indicating an informal approach to communication.
Informal greetings:
- In French-speaking areas: "Salut" (Hello) or "Coucou" (Hey, often among trusted friends).
- In German-speaking areas: "Grüezi" (Hello - formal, but also widely used informally), "Hoi" (Hello) or "Sali" (Hello).
- In Italian-speaking areas: "Ciao" (Hello/Bye).
- In Romansh-speaking areas: "Allegra" (Hello).
Formal greetings:
- In French-speaking areas: "Bonjour" (Good afternoon) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening).
- In German-speaking areas: "Guten Tag" (Good afternoon), "Guten Abend" (Good evening) or "Grüezi" (Hello).
- In Italian-speaking areas: "Buongiorno" (Good morning) or "Buonasera" (Good evening).
- In the Romansh regions: "Allegra" (Hello) is also used as a formal greeting.
In business and formal contexts, the use of titles is very important. Always address people by their professional title and surname, unless they allow you to call them by their first name. For example, for a man, use "Herr Müller" (Mr. Müller) and for a woman, "Frau Meier" (Mrs. Meier). This practice symbolizes respect and a high level of professionalism.
Traditions and customs change over time, and this also applies to greetings. Nowadays, it has become popular among the younger generation (under 40) to exchange hugs instead of kisses.
Waste management and cleanliness
Switzerland has one of the most sophisticated waste management systems on the planet. Recycling is done with great care, with waste being classified into categories including paper, glass, organic waste and mixed waste.
In some regions, the use of special waste bags, which can be purchased in stores, is mandatory. This ensures that waste is recycled and disposed of correctly.
Waste sorting system: In Davos, waste is carefully sorted into several categories, aimed at their correct disposal and recycling. The main groups are:
Paper: Newspapers, magazines, office materials and cardboard boxes are collected separately. Remember to straighten the cardboard to save space.
Glass: Bottles and cans are separated by color (transparent, green and brown) and taken to special collection points. Labels can be left on, but lids must be removed. Please note the time intervals when they are allowed to be disposed of, to avoid disturbances to the peace.
Organic waste: Food scraps, garden waste and other biodegradable materials are collected for composting. Most households have a separate container for organic waste, which is either collected by the municipality or compensated on site. But don’t worry if you prefer the latter option.
Mixed waste: This category includes items that cannot be recycled, such as certain types of plastic, personal hygiene products and other waste. Mixed waste is usually placed in special waste bags, which are available for purchase in stores.
Official waste bags: In many cities, residents are required to use official waste bags, known for example as “Züri-Säcke” in Zurich, for disposing of general waste. These bags can be purchased in supermarkets and specialty stores. The obligation to use these bags helps to ensure that the costs of waste disposal are distributed fairly among the population. The bags come in different sizes and their price includes the costs of disposal.
Recycling points: The designated recycling points are easily accessible and clearly marked, making correct disposal more convenient. At these stations, you will often find separate containers for paper, glass, metal and sometimes plastic. In some areas, collection points are set up for batteries, light bulbs and electronic products. It is advisable to check the addresses of your local recycling points and their specific regulations.
Hazardous household waste: Products such as batteries, paints, chemicals and electronic devices should not be disposed of with normal waste. Many municipalities in Davos provide special collection points for these hazardous materials or organise scheduled collection services, ensuring their safe and responsible disposal.
Fines and regulations: Failure to comply with strict Swiss waste management and recycling standards may result in fines. For example, incorrect sorting or using the wrong garbage bags may result in financial penalties.
Basic Safety Tips for Traveling to Davos
When traveling to Davos, famous for its picturesque mountain scenery, it is important to pay attention to safety. It is recommended to stay in a reliable hotel, such as the Hard Rock Hotel, and to study the area and the main attractions to avoid surprises.
If you are planning on skiing, be aware of the weather conditions and use protective equipment, following the instructions of the instructors. Keep valuables in a safe and avoid displaying them openly to minimize risks. Be sure to have a mobile phone with internet access for quick contact with emergency services, and plan your trip in advance, booking excursions and restaurants to ensure a comfortable and safe stay.
