The New Year is upon us! For expats, this time of year offers not only a sense of renewal but also an opportunity to embrace the local way of life and find your place in a new community. Whether you’re here to work, study, or simply embark on a fresh chapter, settling into Swiss culture can feel like stepping onto unfamiliar terrain. Yet, it’s within these moments of exploration that connection and growth truly happen. By understanding and embracing Swiss etiquette, you’ll not only navigate daily life with ease but also open doors to meaningful relationships.
This guide isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about feeling at home. Let’s start this journey together, building confidence, charm, and heartfelt connections as you make Switzerland your own.
Mastering Dining Etiquette: The Art of Apéros
The Swiss love their apéros—a relaxed, social prelude to dinner. Here’s how to navigate this beloved tradition:
Never arrive empty-handed. A small, thoughtful gift is always a graceful gesture. Consider universally appreciated options like scented candles, a beautiful bouquet of flowers, or a stylishly wrapped book. While a bottle of wine might seem like a classic choice, it’s best to avoid it unless you know your host’s taste. Instead, focus on gifts that bring charm to their home. Presentation makes all the difference—take time to wrap your gift elegantly, and include a heartfelt, handwritten card. This simple yet refined touch will leave a lasting impression on your host.
Toast like a local. Maintain eye contact as you clink glasses and say 'Zum Wohl' or 'Prost' (German, especially in the Swiss-German region), 'Santé' (French), or 'Salute' (Italian).
Pace yourself. Apéros often involve delicious snacks, but remember, it’s just the beginning—save room for dinner!
Attending apéros are also a fantastic way to meet new people. Many communities and expat clubs organize these gatherings, making them an excellent opportunity to expand your social circle and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. If you’re unsure where to start, explore local social events or sign up for etiquette classes—a great way to learn and meet like-minded individuals.
Meeting Your Neighbours: Build Your Village
Building relationships in Switzerland can feel challenging at first, but connecting with your neighbours is a great step toward creating your support network. Here’s how to get started:
Introduce yourself proactively. In cities like Basel, Zürich, or Geneva, people may not greet each other as often as in the countryside, but a smile or a friendly 'Grüezi' is never out of place. A short, warm introduction can make a big difference, and you might even consider inviting neighbours to an apéro of your own to break the ice and build connections.
Formality matters. In Switzerland, greetings are formal by default. Use 'Sie' when addressing someone, and accompany it with their last name. Once you transition to the informal 'du,' switch to using their first name. Additionally, in some cantons or among older individuals, you might encounter the use of 'es' instead of 'du' or 'Sie.' This is especially common with older men addressing younger women, as it avoids implying age or status. For example, if you invite new neighbours to an apéro, you might say, "Would you be comfortable if we switched to ‘du’?" This approach strikes the perfect balance between politeness and friendliness.
Join social events. Participate in local activities or expat-focused groups where you can meet others in similar situations. Events like potlucks, cultural nights, or community clean-ups are fantastic icebreakers.
Attend classes! Whether it’s yoga, dance, or (of course) etiquette classes—these are fun, structured ways to meet new people while picking up new skills.
Remember, building friendships takes time, but consistent effort—like attending gatherings or offering small acts of kindness—can make a lasting impact.
Embrace the New Year, Embrace the New You
The start of a new year is a fantastic opportunity to refine your personal and social skills. By attending apéros, connecting with neighbours, and joining local events, you’ll not only integrate into Swiss life but also create meaningful relationships.
If you’re curious to dive deeper into the art of Swiss etiquette, why not join one of my courses? Together, we can unlock the secrets to navigating Swiss life with elegance and ease—and you might just make a few new friends along the way.
Cheers to a fresh chapter in Switzerland—may this year bring you new connections, unforgettable moments, and the confidence to thrive!
Amy Novak
Amy is an etiquette enthusiast with an international background, dedicated to helping expats settle and thrive in Switzerland. Having lived and worked across various countries, she has gained a unique perspective on adapting to new cultures and fostering meaningful connections. Her passion lies in making social interactions effortless and enjoyable by blending elegance with practicality. Her goal is to help you feel confident, connected, and truly at home in your new environment.
Website: https://modern-manners-guide.com/
Comments