Learn more about customs and cultures all over the world, from your fellow members of PTPI.
We believe that greater understanding between individuals and peoples, worldwide, reveals universal values and aspirations. We believe that if people can better understand other cultures, they are more tolerant and accepting of differences.
Name: Ernest Walti
Country (Territory) of Residence: Switzerland
1. What is your favorite cultural tradition?
In the direct democratic country of Switzerland, people can vote on all important decisions (laws; voting local and countrywide parlament members) on three levels:
1. In 2,550 communities (for example, Interlaken).
2. In 26 cantons (for example, the canton of Bern).
3. In the country (Eidgenossenschaft).
2. In your opinion, what is the most significant issue facing your country in the present day?
We are constantly working on keeping our economy stable and keeping the unemployment rate low.
A waterfall between Interlaken and Meiringen in Switzerland, one example of many that are found in the region.
3. What do you consider to be the most important holiday in your country and how is it celebrated?
August 1. This is Switzerland’s Independence Day. We celebrate locally with many festivals, fireworks and parades; speechies from government officials are also given.
4. Who would you say is your country’s most significant historical figure?
Wilhelm Tell (Swiss folk hero).
5. Which part of your country’s history do you find most interesting?
The founding of Switzerland (Eidgenossenschaft). It took place in 1291 at the Rutli, a place up on a hilltop near the lake of Lucerne – Vierwaldstattersee. The oath of allegiance was spoken here.
6. What languages are spoken in your country? How many of those languages do you speak and which ones?
The national languages are German, French, Italian and Romantsch. I speak my mother language (Swiss German), high German, French and some English (like everybody).
7. What is the customary form of greeting in your country?
In Bern: Gruessech. In Zurich: Gruezi. In French speaking parts of Switzerland: Bonjour. In Ticino (the Italian speaking part of Swizterland): Bongiorno or Ciao. We greet each other with three kisses or greet new acquaintances with a handshake.
8. Are their any cultural taboos?
We don’t spit! And we shouldn’t discriminate against different races.
9. What is the most popular sport in your country?
In summer: Schwingen (Swiss wrestling). In winter: skiing.
10. What is your favorite traditional meal and how do you make it?
Fondue (cheese with a bit of garlic in a crock over a warming pad) and Rosti (fried hashed brown potatoes).
11. Do you have a favorite quote or words that you live by?
“Everything will be o.k.”
12. Where in the world would you most like to visit?
Southern countries like Italy; southern France; also Germany.
13. What is your favorite word? Least favorite word?
Favorite word: ‘peace’. Least favorite word: ‘trouble’.
14. What is the school system like in your country?
Swiss education system. Diagram courtesy of the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education.
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