6 Ways You Can Help Protect Swiss Nature While Visiting
In your mind, Switzerland may be pristine, rugged and wild; the true essence of nature. That may have been true several decades ago, but nowadays, Switzerland’s ecosystems are in a pretty precarious state and they are actually a performing a lot worse than many other European countries in terms of habitat and species conservation. To help protect Switzerland’s beauty, follow these simple steps.
Drink tap water, don’t buy plastic
Plastic pollution isn’t a problem that’s only plaguing the world’s oceans, it’s also affecting lakes. The beautiful lakes of Switzerland are no exception. But no matter where you are in Switzerland, you can drink the tap water. So, bring along a reusable bottle and cut down on your plastic waste. If you do use plastic, recycle it using this handy recycling map.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Leave things where they are
When you are out hiking in Switzerland you may see a spectacular flower that would look great once pressed in a book and framed at home. But with so many of Switzerland’s habitats – and its native species – in steep decline, you’ll likely be removing a vital piece of the natural puzzle, one that may never be replaced. In the Swiss Natural Park, removing anything is strictly prohibited; be that a pebble or a plant.
Stick to the rules, they’re there for a reason
Sure, sticking to the designated path in the Swiss Natural Park may seem dull when there’s all that wonderful wilderness to explore. But it’s written into the Park’s regulations for a good reason. Not only might you trample plant life underfoot but you may also disturb the wild animals that live there.
Share what you see
If you see something disturbing, be it an empty, silent forest devoid of birdsong, or a field that’s bare and barren, without a single flower in sight, tell someone about it. Public perception of Switzerland’s impending ecosystem disaster is a huge problem. According to a recent government report, a staggering 74 percent of Swiss people think the country’s biodiversity is in either a good or very good state. This simply doesn’t hold up to the facts. Talking about the problem can be a great first step to solving it.
Take public transport
Switzerland’s public transport is well connected, efficient, environmentally cleaner than driving and can offer up spectacular views of the country that you’d otherwise miss out on if you drive.
Find out about local initiatives
Local problems often come with local solutions. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland take a closer look at what’s going on in that region. For instance, if you’re heading to Montreux, near Lake Geneva, you can read up on the problem facing the region’s spectacular narcissus blooms and learn how you can help.
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Hanna
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It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
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I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
