Description
Swiss Watching is a light-hearted yet revealing journey around Europe's most individual country. From seeking Heidi and finding the best chocolate to reliving a bloody past and exploring an uncertain future, Swiss Watching proves that there's more to Switzerland than banks, skis, francs and cheese. One country, four languages, 26 cantons, and 7.5 million people (only 80% of whom are Swiss): there's nowhere else in Europe like it. Switzerland may be surrounded by land, but it is an island at the center of Europe. Welcome to the landlocked island.
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As an experienced travel writer who eventually settled in Switzerland intent on exploring every part of it, Bewes is singularly suitable to the task of demystifying the Swiss and their country. The author, in a close, clear, and humorous style begins with a study of the geographic factors, such as huge snowy mountain ranges, that influence the unique character of the Swiss. Later chapters explore innovations and social and political conventions created by the Swiss. The work, which contains hand-drawn maps, an appendix of Swiss Cantons, and a notes section, succeeds in elevating the cultures of Switzerland beyond tired stereotypes. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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