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Introduction
| S W
I T Z E R L A N D |
A scintillating blend
of pastoral, rustic lifestyles and metropolitan attractions, the mountainous paradise
called Switzerland attracts tourists of varied persuasions. This is the land of cuckoo
clocks and bankers, historic landmarks and chalet-dotted countryside. |
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Though the Swiss are
united neither by religion or language they have lived peacefully together for centuries
and have maintained their neutrality which has since become their hallmark. They have
deliberately kept aloof from political issues the world over and are a self-contained
nation, both culturally and economically. Visitors often presume that this would mean
meeting a reserved and unfriendly people Not true! The Swiss can envelop you with
their warm hospitality as soon as you allow them to
so be ready for one of the most
pleasant travel experiences when you come a-visiting. |
F A C
T B O X |
| Official Name |
Swiss Confederation |
| Area |
41285 sq. Kms. |
| Population |
7,260, 357 (1998 estimate) |
| Capital City |
Bern |
| People |
Alpine, Nordic, Slavic, Dinaric |
| Religion |
Roman Catholic (46%), Protestant (40%), Muslim/Jewish/Christian (4%) |
| Language |
German, French, Italian, Romansch |
| Government |
Federal Republic |
| Head of State |
President Samuel Schmid (since 1 January, 2005) |
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