What do you think of when you think of Switzerland? Is it the dramatic landscapes and quaint country settings? Or is it the unique French, German and Italian cultural influences? Maybe it's the historic castles and heritage? Whatever it is, Switzerland has something special for you whether your idea of the perfect vacation is hiking in a world of breathtaking vistas or pampering yourself in the lap of luxury. The diversity of the landlocked, mountainous country is the essence of Switzerland and 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 transportation. Capital City: BerMajor Cities: Baden, Basel, Bellinzona, Bern, Biel, Brig, Chur, Fribourg, Geneva, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Lausanne, Locarno, Lugano, Luzern, Martigny, Montreux-Vevey, Neuchâtel, Schaffhausen, Sierre, Sion, Solothurn, St. Gallen, Thun, Winterthur, Zug, Zurich Bordering Countries: Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Liechtenstein Climate: Because of its central position, the weather is influenced by the four main European air currents - from the Atlantic, the eastern continent, the northern sub polar region and the Mediterranean south. The climate is temperate on the Central Plateau; otherwise it differs considerably from region to region. German, French, Italian, Romansch is the languages used in Switzerland.