Switzerland may seem relatively small as compared to other European nations but that

certainly does not mean that it has less to offer. Rather, it has set itself apart from the
rest of Europe – its unparalleled landscapes, peaceful environments and cosmopolitan
cities – and has succeeded in becoming a tourist mecca that is at the same time not
over-commercialised. And all this without forgoing the comforts of my home country
Singapore; it is safe, clean, you can get around easily by public transport and there are
no language barriers.
As for the question on everyone’s minds, yes it is mighty expensive but hey, you get what
you pay for! And here, I’m spelling out 15 reasons to convince you to visit this
beautiful European country.
1. Hear four different national languages
“What language do the Swiss speak?” is a question I often get from my Singapore
friends. The answer: The Swiss speak different languages – either German, French,
Italian or Romansh, depending on where they live. At the same time, most of the people
in the country’s major cities are fluent in English. Thus, not only is travelling made
easier with no language barrier, you also get to hear its locals speak several languages
and experience different cultures when you travel around the country. Now, how often
do you get to do that?

2. Taste Swiss cuisine

Each of these regions boasts its own specialities too – Saffron Risotto for the Italian-
speaking, Raclette (hot cheese dribbled over potatoes) for the French-speaking region
and Landjager (semi-dried sausages) for the German-speaking part. But a few dishes,
such as rosti and cheese fondue are eaten across the country and are almost always
included in restaurants catered to foreign visitors. Having eaten cheese fondue in
Switzerland, I must say that the taste is not what one would usually expect of a cheese
fondue and it is an “either-you-like-it-or-you-don’t” dish. Nevertheless, it is a must-try
and one should taste it for themselves to know if it suits their taste buds!
3. Sample Swiss chocolates
uality chocolates that instantly melt in the mouth are my kind of favourite chocolates,
and they make perfect souvenirs as well. Choose from a wide variety of brands, each
with a long-standing history of producing chocolates, such as Callier, Suchard and
Chocolat Villars. Dedicated chocolate lovers can also make a trip to any of the 21
chocolate factories scattered around the country such as the 150-year-old Maestrani
Chocolate Factory at St Gallen.
4. Feel safe at “home”
Contrary to a large part of Europe notorious for its hoard of snatch thieves, pickpockets
and gypsies, Switzerland ranks 7th globally in terms of safety and security according to
the Safe Cities Index 2015. In fact, Singapore has often been likened to Switzerland,
especially in terms of safety and cleanliness. You can walk along its spotless streets even
at night without having to worry about getting mugged.
5. Marvel at the Matterhorn
Looks familiar to you? It is because this iconic landmark is featured in the brand logos
of Toblerone and Paramount pictures! Located at the border between Switzerland and
Italy and overlooking the town of Zermatt, this popular tourist sight is famous for its
almost-perfect four-sided pyramidal peak. This year, a series of events and festivities
will also be held at Zermatt to mark 150 years since the first ascent of the mountain.
6. Hop onto a scenic train ride
Be entertained by Switzerland’s gorgeous sceneries during your long journeys by train.
Travelling by rail is faster than travelling by coach, cheaper than flights and easy to use.
Plus you get to sit back, relax and enjoy the view. In fact, it has been reported that tour
packages which include specific scenic rail routes such as the Glacier Express and
Bernina Express are gaining traction here in Singapore for its practicality.
7. Snap postcard-worthy pictures
Every picture I took in Switzerland looked like it’s from a postcard,” said every person I
know who has visited the country, myself included. Be wowed by nature’s astonishing
beauty, where lush green pastures, skies in stunning hues of blue and the magnificent
alps come together to form a picture that truly represents the Instagram catchphrase
#nofilterneeded.
Also read: 12 Views in Switzerland Too Stunning to be Real
8. Have an alternative farmstay experience
Experience something truly different and memorable by heading to the countryside.
Agritourism has become, in recent years, increasingly popular and which better country
to experience this at than Switzerland? You can even choose between sleeping in a hut, a
campground or on straw.
9. Get active with a variety of sporting activities
From sports on land, to those in the water and even some up in the air, Switzerland has
it all. For those seeking a thrilling, new sport, try canyoning, a water sport that is
steadily gaining fans in Europe and around the world. It involves travelling from the
start to the end of a canyon using a host of methods such as walking, climbing, jumping,
abseiling and swimming. The best places to experience canyoning in Switzerland’s
crystalline waters include Interlaken and the canton of Ticino. Just remember to have a
hearty breakfast, equip yourself with shoes that have a good grip (I am not joking) and if
you have one, bring along a GoPro to capture those beautiful moments.
10. Soak in thermal waters of the best quality
After all that walking and hiking, soothe your tense muscles and aching joints by visiting
one of Switzerland’s many thermal baths. With a 2000-year history of tapping their
thermal springs, you can be sure that you are in good hands of the Swiss, the experts in
water-based wellness. Opt to have a restorative retreat in a luxurious indoor spa or
better still, bathe outdoors among the Alps and indulge in a therapeutic experience for
both mind and body.
11. Reward yourself with a luxury watch
Be prepared to be spoilt for choice when shopping for a luxury watch. Endless boutiques
stocking watches from luxury brands such as Patek Philippe, Cartier and Rolex line the
streets of Lucerne much to the delight of watch collectors and fanatics. The best part?
These timeless timepieces are quality assured; they are after all “Swiss-made”.
12. Lakes and castles out of fairytales
Arguably the most well-known castle of Switzerland, the Chillon Castle is a must-see for
travellers, and it is not difficult to see why when you take in the glorious view of the 11th
century castle against the backdrop of mountains. Not forgetting Switzerland’s limpid
waters, take a trip to Valle Verzasca, a valley near the town of Locarno in the Italian-
speaking part of Switzerland and be blown away by its emerald-green waters. While you
are there, take the chance to go for a dip or sunbathe on one of the many huge rocks
scattered along the streams.
Also read: 15 Stunning Castles in Europe You Wish You Could Live In
13. Efficient public transport

With so many places to see and so many things to do, it is essential that you plan ahead
and keep track of time. Luckily, Switzerland’s superb public transport system helps you
with this; its buses, trams and trains are extremely punctual (something you don’t get
very often in most parts of Europe) and its train stations are well-designed. Just take
note that when the Swiss say that Sunday is a rest day, they really mean rest – some, if
not most bus services will not be available!
14. Largest waterfall in Europe
Be stunned by the Rhine Falls near the town of Schaffhausen in Northern Switzerland.
The largest plain waterfall in Europe, it is easily accessible by car, bicycle and train. Take
an exciting boat ride through the falls and also keep a lookout for special events such as
the spectacular annual fireworks display held on 31 July.
15. Best excuse to visit the rest of Europe
Located in the heart of Europe, the landlocked country is bordered by four countries which are
popular travel destinations as well: Germany, Italy, France and Austria. Consider taking a day
trip to or include in your itinerary nearby cities such as Munich (4h train ride from Zurich),
Milan (1h 40min train ride from Lugano), Lyon (2h drive from Lausanne) and Innsbruck (4h
train ride from Lucerne)

1. Tax-Free Income Is a Major Crowd-Puller for Jobs in Dubai

Levying taxes against any professional’s personal income is against the laws in the UAE, which translates to
gross income going straight to the employee’s bank account. So it means that your hard earned money is all
your’s, and you don’t have to pay any income tax. Besides, the residents of the UAE also enjoy no stamp duty,
tax-free rental income, and no tax on capital gains or inheritance. It is an attractive incentive and can help you
save a good amount in the long term. However, in order to get the benefits of tax-free income, ensure that you
don’t have any obligation to any other state for tax payment on foreign earned and sourced income.

Also Read – How to Look for a Job in Dubai When You are on a Visit Visa?

2. Global Exposure for Professionals at All Levels

Majority of the working population in Dubai comprises of expats. The city is a preferred choice for professionals
from countries like the Philippines, India, Pakistan, and even Europe. Such a big mix of nationalities means
varied cultural and professional influences, in the form of global cuisines, traditions, as well as leisure and
entertainment. Without a doubt, Dubai offers the biggest grounding in international business in all the key
economic sectors such as real estate, finance, oil and gas, services as well as hospitality, and that is why demands
are high for jobs in Dubai.

3. Ample Employment Opportunities for Jobseekers

UAE’s economy is highly advanced and yet it is considered to be a relatively younger economy. Dubai has an
established employment industry and is mainly dependent on expats. Besides, the city also offers a great
opportunity for entrepreneurs as well, by offering them with immense opportunities to start up their businesses.
Employment requirements are going up on a remarkable rate and professionals with unique skill sets and
expertise are in high demand. The government is also working towards attracting foreign investors and to achieve
this feat, it is establishing a number of free zones for industrial segments. Its entrepreneurial environment,
extensive employment prospects and better salaries are some of the main reasons why you should look for jobs
in Dubai.
Also Read – 5 Best Paying Jobs in Dubai

4. Salaries and Other Benefits Add to the Value of Jobs in Dubai

Employers are aware that low-paying jobs in Dubai and small increments in salaries don’t have many takers. To
avoid attrition and to keep the motivation up for the professionals, employers are offering them attractive salaries
and benefits like health insurance, a vacation of 30 days/annum, once-a-year airline tickets to the home country,
and housing allowances, among others. Some of the companies also offer flexible working hours and education
allowances to the employees and have a great focus on a better work-life balance. In addition, some of the
companies are also offering work-from-home options to working mothers.

5. Dubai is a Safe Place to Live

Compared to other Middle Eastern countries, the UAE is the safest. Dubai is the most developed and modern
cities of the region and offers a safe place to live for both males and females. Dubai police are highly proactive
and their crime-solving rate is as high as 99%.

6. Cheap Petrol And Automobiles

If you are a car freak then the UAE is the place to be. Petrol is extremely cheap here and even cars are available
at much lesser prices than in other countries.

7. Enjoy an Incredible Quality of Life

Love glittery lifestyle, Dubai is the place for you! With luxurious hotels, bars, pubs, clubs and other
entertainment options around, you don’t need to look further. Enjoy beach surfing, go shopping in a high-end
shopping mall, feast on world-class cuisines, you name it and you have the option available right there.

A great place to live and travel, Dubai is also a great place to work for. High paying jobs, tax-free income, great
lifestyle and many employment benefits give the professionals all the reasons to kick start their career in Dubai.