Switzerland is renowned for its enviable quality of life in a country that ticks along like clockwork. Switzerland is a federal republic consisting of 26 states called cantons. Berne is the seat of the federal authorities, while the country's economic centres are its three global cities, Geneva, Basel and especially Zurich. Zurich and Geneva have respectively been ranked as having the first and second highest quality of life in the world. It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is multilingual and has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. The fusion of German, French and Italian ingredients has formed a robust national culture, and the country's alpine landscapes have enough zing to reinvigorate the most jaded traveller. The establishment of Switzerland is traditionally dated to 1 August 1291; the first of August is the national holiday.It has an area of 41,285 square kilometres. The more populous northern part of the country, comprising about 30% of the country's total area, is called the Middle Land. It has greater open and hilly landscapes, partly forested, partly open pastures, usually with grazing herds, or vegetables and fruit fields, but it is still hilly. There are large lakes found here and the biggest Swiss cities are in this area of the country. The Swiss climate is generally temperate, but can vary greatly between the localities, from glacial conditions on the mountaintops to the often pleasant Mediterranean climate at Switzerland's southern tip.

 Switzerland's famed political neutrality, financial power and isolated location, ring-fenced by breathtaking mountains, have enabled it to play a safe but central role in European affairs.Its central location in the middle of Europe has also made Switzerland a favourite meeting place for conventions and international conferences. Tourism is one of the most important sectors of the Swiss economy.In  2004, approximately 3% of GDP derived from tourism. As a stylish tourist destination it offers such top ski resorts as Zermatt, Verbier and celebrity-studded St Moritz, while the white peaks of mountains set against blue skies make a wonderful backdrop for summertime hiking. The ancient capital of Berne provides superb opportunities for sightseeing, shopping and traditional folk entertainment while the largest city, Zürich leads the way in arts, design and nightlife, from opera and world-class theatre to stylish bars and nightclubs.Everyone must see while visiting Switzerland is Chillon Castle, on Lake Geneva, with its dungeons and numerous rooms filled with weapons, utensils, and frescos. In addition to language, art and culture and nature, Switzerland’s regions also boast delicious food. Switzerland offers a large range of specialities, including “pizokel” in Puschlav, “brasato” and polenta in a cosy grotto along the Strada  alta.Visitors should enjoy this food.