Switzerland owes its modern structure of governance to Napoleon who in his conquest of 1798 put an end to the old confederation which had survived over 400 years. The new era began – in 1848 the political arguments about the type of state lead to a pioneering, revolutionary constitution for Europe – a democratic Federal state with 26 sovereign cantons, democratically elected authorities, a two chamber system, a direct political say and equality of the four languages of the country and cultures.

Switzerland is a highly developed industrial country with a strong export orientated economy. Machines, synthetics and dyes, agro chemistry and pharmaceuticals, jewellery and also watches are the main exports. 95% of all Swiss watches are exported abroad. Switzerland is, above all, well-known world-wide in manufacturing for its precision instruments and machines. The food industries also have a good international reputation (Swiss chocolate and cheese, but also baby food). It's true that Switzerland does meet about a half of its food production requirement from abroad, but agriculture remains, however, a very important economic asset. Grain, potatoes and sugar beet, but also wine, fruit and tobacco are produced. There are also cattle breeding and the dairy industry.

The diversity of the landlocked, mountainous country is the essence of Switzerland and this gives the country its unique identity. Still, it is best known for its financial institutions, fine cheeses and chocolate, watch making industry, for its scenery and an excellent network of public traffic. Here is a look at some of Switzerland's key event and conference locations.

Language
The national languages of Switzerland are German (North, Central and Eastern Switzerland), French (Western Switzerland), Italian (Southern Switzerland) and Romansh – a derivative of Latin (South-Eastern Switzerland). English is widely spoken.

Climate
The climate is moderate with no excessive heat, cold or humidity. From July to August the daytime temperature range is 18 to 28 °C (65° - 82° F) and from January to February the range is -2 to 7 °C (28° - 45° F). In spring and autumn, the daytime temperature range is 8 to 15 °C (46° - 59° F). Depending on the altitude the temperature range may vary. It is highly recommended to visitors to pack a sweater, good walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a compact umbrella and/or a light rain coat.

Currency
Switzerland's currency remains with the Swiss franc, usually indicated as CHF. While Switzerland is not part of the European Union and thus is not obliged to convert to the Euro, many prices are nonetheless indicated in euros so that visitors may compare prices. Merchants may accept euros but are not obliged to do so. Change given back to the client will most likely be in Swiss francs.

The safest and easiest form of money is traveler's checks and credit cards. The cards most used are Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Many banks in Switzerland have equipped their ATM machines with the CIRRUS or MAESTRO system. Many other Swiss banks offer ATM machines for cash advances with your credit card. It is recommended to have a small amount of cash on hand upon arrival in Switzerland for immediate expenses, i.e. taxies, city transportation etc.

Money exchange places:
- any Swiss bank
- airport
- main railway stations (western union)
- major hotels

Swiss banks offer the best exchange rates for your traveller's checks or cash for foreign currencies (only bank notes). Official exchange offices and hotels may charge a fee for their services.

VAT and Tax Refunds
The VAT you pay on purchased goods in Switzerland is 7.6 %. You may ask at the shops for your Global Refund Cheque and reclaim the VAT: The total purchases in a shop must amount to CHF 400.00 (including VAT). The tourist must be resident outside Switzerland and the goods must be exported within 30 days.

3 easy steps to claiming your refund in Switzerland:

In the store
your total purchases in a shop must amount to CHF 400.00 (Including VAT). You must be a resident outside Switzerland and the goods must be exported within 30 days.

Through customs
when leaving Switzerland the Tax-free Shopping Cheques have to be stamped by Swiss customs authorities after they have seen the goods.

Collecting the refund
you have several choices: immediate cash at a Cash Refund Office, direct crediting to a chosen credit card or bank account, a bank check and even, for certain countries, a cash refund when you return home.

Opening Hours
Generally, offices are open 8 am to 12 noon and 2 pm to 5 pm on weekdays and closed on weekends.

Banks
Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Once a week they extend their hours. Please check locally. They are closed Saturdays, Sundays and on public holidays. However, money can also be changed at major train stations. Look for the "Change/Cambio" signs. Many banks have automated teller machines (ATMs) that accept overseas bank cards. Please check with your local bank before leaving if your bank card is valid in Switzerland.

Shops
Shops in smaller towns and villages are generally open from 8.30 am - 12 noon and again from 2 – 6.30 pm. In larger cities they do not close for lunch. In larger cities, shops generally extend their hours till 8 pm on one evening of the week, usually on Thursdays.

Electrical Current
The current used throughout Switzerland is 230 Volts (AC), 50 cycles. Most power sockets are designed for three pin round plugs. The standard continental type plug with two round pins, applied for many electrical travel products, may be used without problem. Adaptors are available in most hotels.