SNOW COUNTRY

WHAT IS SWITZERLAND'S SECRET TO SUCCESS?

Switzerland benefited from the multitude of ideas that converged here as a result of it's being at the crossroads of the nations of Europe and of its linguistic areas. It's a combination of this and the fact that we've been spared direct involvement in wars in the last 150 years. The industrial revolution also enabled Switzerland to develop human resources and accumulate wealth, which was very important considering we are a country devoid of natural resources except for water.

We've also benefited from always having an open economy. Visitors enabled us to continuously be exposed to international competition, making our economy responsive and flexible.

WHICH PLACES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO VISIT?

The mountains are always the highlight of the Swiss experience. They should see the Matterhorn, which I like to compare to Mount Mayon, and go to Grindelweld to see the Wetterhorn, Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau lined up in a row. St. Moritz and Gstadt are also wonderful for outdoor sports and especially for skiing in the winter.

Winter is a very good time to go especially for skiing or snowboarding. But you can also go hiking, snow walking or just take a cable car for a majestic view. There are also many good restaurants in this area, and it's very nice to sit on the terrace of one of these restaurants to enjoy a delicious meal with wonderful views.