As Swiss As Possible

AS SWISS AS POSSIBLE is taking a short six-week summer break! We'll be away from 20 June until 6 August. We’ll be pausing new episode launches for the next six weeks while we recharge, gather fresh ideas, and maybe spend a little extra time enjoying the Swiss sunshine and air. While we're away, we'd love to hear from you. How have you settled in? Any challenges you'd like to share?...

Swiss cows are much more than a postcard image—they're at the heart of Swiss culture, traditions, cheese, chocolate, and Alpine life. In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Tiffany and Nisha explore the fascinating world of Swiss cows, from the iconic cowbells echoing through mountain valleys to the beloved Alpine traditions that have shaped Switzerland for centuries. Learn about famous Swi...

In this delicious third installment of our Yum series, Tiffany and Nisha dive into the flavors, traditions, and outdoor lifestyle that make summer in Switzerland so magical. From juicy cherries, apricots, berries, heirloom vegetables, and homemade jams to Swiss fish specialties, elderflower cordial, and refreshing Hugo spritzes, this episode celebrates the best of Swiss summer bounty. We also unpa...

Moving to Switzerland and wondering how to stay informed, connected, and integrated locally? In this episode of As Swiss As Possible, Tiffany and Nisha explore the best English-language news and media resources for expats living in Switzerland. From navigating Swiss politics and local culture to understanding residency changes, events, taxes, and everyday life, finding reliable information as an E...

Discover how the Expat Expo Switzerland helps newcomers and long-time residents thrive. From navigating health insurance and housing to finding community, schools, and a taste of home, this episode dives into the expat journey. CEO James Austin shares how the Expo connects people with trusted services, entrepreneurs, and local insights—making integration in Switzerland easier, faster, and more mea...

What does moving to Switzerland really do to your child’s mental health? In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , we speak with expert psychologists Marnie Reed and Emma Jones of Global Roots Consulting about how international relocation impacts children—especially Third Culture Kids. From stress and identity challenges to language barriers and social adjustment, we unpack what kids actually go t...

What do Eurovision Song Contest, Swiss culture, and a little chaos have in common? In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Tiffany and Nisha dive into one of Europe’s most iconic (and unpredictable) traditions—Eurovision. From its origins in Switzerland in 1956 to becoming one of the world’s biggest live TV events, Eurovision is far more than just a music competition. It’s a cultural phenomenon...

Spring has arrived in Switzerland, and with it comes a fresh wave of seasonal flavors worth celebrating. In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Nisha and Tiffany dive into the country’s most beloved springtime delicacies— Spargel (asparagus), Bärlauch (wild garlic), strawberries, and rhubarb. Discover why the Swiss are so passionate about seasonal eating, from the highly anticipated “Spargel se...

What happens to relationships when you move abroad? Expat life in Switzerland can be exciting and full of opportunity—but it can also bring loneliness, cultural adjustment, and unexpected pressure on relationships. In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Tiffany and Nisha explore the emotional side of living abroad and how couples can stay connected while navigating expat life. They are joined b...

In this episode, we return to the snow to explore one of Switzerland’s most beloved winter sports: cross-country skiing (Langlauf). Building on our earlier episode about downhill skiing in Switzerland, we dive into what makes cross-country skiing such a uniquely Swiss experience—from its low-impact, full-body workout to its accessibility across all ages and fitness levels. Drawing on personal expe...

Why Is Swiss Chocolate So Famous?   We’re diving into one of Switzerland’s most iconic exports: chocolate . In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , we explore what chocolate really is, why Swiss chocolate stands out globally, and how precision, craftsmanship, and milk quality made Switzerland a chocolate powerhouse. We unpack the friendly Swiss vs. Belgian chocolate debate , break down Chocolate...

What really happens during Basel Fasnacht — and why does it start at 4am? In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Nisha and Tiffany dive deep into Basler Fasnacht , Switzerland’s most iconic carnival and a UNESCO-recognized cultural tradition. Joined by special guest Yves, a Basel local and active Fasnäch participant, they unpack the history, rituals, sounds, and satire that define the “drey sch...

As Swiss As Possible goes on air! 🇨🇭🎙️ In this special short feature clip , the hosts of As Swiss As Possible are interviewed by Anna Wirz on Radio X’s The English Show . The conversation dives into Swiss culture, identity, and the stories behind the podcast—exploring what it really means to be “Swiss” in all its quirks, contradictions, and everyday moments. Perfect for fans of Swiss podcasts , En...

Moving to Switzerland with pets—or getting one once you’re here—comes with unique rules, responsibilities, and surprises 🐾 In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Tiffany and Nisha dive into everything expats need to know about owning pets in Switzerland, with a focus on dogs and cats. From bringing pets into Switzerland, microchipping, vaccinations, registration, and canton-specific rules, to...

Autumn and winter in Switzerland are a celebration of seasonality, comfort, and tradition. In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , Nisha and Tiffany explore the must-try foods that define Swiss autumn and winter — from Wildsaison favorites like venison and wild boar, to cozy classics such as fondue, raclette, and Älplermagronen . They also dive into beloved Swiss winter sweets including vermicel...

Hit the slopes with us in this fun and fascinating deep dive into Swiss skiing culture. From the surprising history of how Switzerland shaped alpine ski tourism, to avalanche safety, luxury après-ski, glacier runs, and the quirkiest differences expats notice on the mountain—Tiffany and Nisha unpack it all. We also share insider tips for skiing in Switzerland, what makes Swiss ski infrastructure wo...

In this episode, Tiffany and Nisha sit down with Mallory Neiman , founder of Velocity , Switzerland’s first boutique indoor cycling studio. Mallory shares how she brought the rhythm-based indoor cycling concept to Switzerland, what makes Velocity’s classes and coaching style unique, and how she built a loyal community in a country where group workouts look different from those abroad. They explore...

Ready to explore Switzerland—but not sure where to start? In this episode of As Swiss As Possible , we’re diving deep into the world of Alpine travel in Switzerland with special guest Tanya Deans , the creator of the hugely popular website Swiss Family Fun . Whether you’re an expat new to Switzerland, hoping to spark a love for the outdoors in yourself or your loved ones, or simply looking for the...

Let it snow! Your first Swiss winter is pure magic — glowing lantern parades, Christmas markets, Alpine food, and traditions that warm even the coldest nights. In this episode, we guide newcomers, expats, and winter-lovers through the most enchanting traditions of Switzerland’s holiday season. Nisha and Tiffany dive into Advent , when Switzerland transforms into a festive wonderland: Christmas mar...

Ready to chase those iconic Swiss mountain views — maybe even the legendary James Bond Goldfinger route? In this episode, we take you from nervous first drives to full Alpine confidence. Switzerland’s roads are stunning, but the rules? Let’s just say they take some getting used to. Tiffany and Nisha share their early shockers: surprise speed-camera “paparazzi,” mysterious road signs (yes, the whit...

In the final episode of our “Starter Pack” series, we’re diving into the unspoken rules of Swiss culture — the invisible etiquette guide every expat eventually bumps into. If you’ve ever stood frozen in an awkward moment with a Swiss local, wondering what just happened… this one’s for you. Nisha kicks things off with how Swiss habits start young: outdoor classrooms, all-weather preparedness, and e...

Switzerland is famous for mountains, chocolate… and an incredibly organized waste-disposal system. In this episode, Tiffany and Nisha break down how Swiss recycling really works, why garbage bags cost money, and how the entire system encourages greener living and smarter choices. Tiffany shares her early culture shocks: cardboard being collected only once a month. She also explains Switzerland’s w...

In this episode, we dive into the world of insurance in Switzerland—an essential part of everyday life for expats and locals alike. From mandatory health insurance to liability, car, and household coverage, understanding the Swiss system can feel overwhelming. Join hosts Tiffany and Nisha as they sit down with insurance expert Kurt Hegetschweiler. Learn the difference between basic and supplementa...

If there’s one stereotype about Switzerland that’s absolutely true, it’s this: the Swiss are punctual . And their transportation system? A masterpiece of precision. In this episode, Tiffany and Nisha dive into the world-class Swiss public transport network — trains, trams, buses, gondolas — and explore how Swiss punctuality shapes everyday life, work culture, and even personal habits. The episode...

If you’re new to Switzerland, the first real culture shock might hit on a quiet, peaceful… Sunday . No grocery shopping. No recycling. No lawn mowing. No errands. No noise. For many expats, the Swiss Sunday Shutdown feels impossible at first — especially if you work full-time and are used to cramming chores into the weekend. So how do you survive it (and maybe even love it)? In this episode, Tiffa...