Ticking Along with the Swiss

I would highly recommend this book. I really enjoy learning about people and customs of over countries. This is a very entertaining and interesting book on Switzerland

Americans are typically not well prepared for a cross-cultural experience. We live in a huge, relatively homogenous country, and can live our entire lifespan without recourse to a second language or exposure to someone who holds their fork in their left hand. This isn't an indictment of Americans, it is just a recognition that without being in close proximity to other cultural rivals, we have no economic or social incentive to understand that others are different than we are in unforseen ways.I found this book charming and entertaining. It is a selection of essays written by fluent English speakers who have spent long periods of time in Switzerland. It is also very helpful in understanding some of the subtleties of Swiss behavior and thought process. It is presumptious to think that inside of a few years you can totally understand a culture, but it is also arrogant not to try to understand it and meet it on its own terms. The way to do this is through study of their language, personal experience, readings on relevant sociological topics, and by reading essays like this by people bringing different view points and experiences.The essays vary from very light and short pieces, to descriptions of unique Swiss behaviors, to autobiographical accounts. The dryest piece, but by no means least useful, is a helpful description of culture shock and suggestions on working through it.While I think Americans especially need to work at cross-cultural communications skills, the book is certainly not meant just for Americans--it is meant for everyone who wants to understand more about the Swiss. Providing the varied viewpoints of 30 different commentators with completely different backgrounds, the book succeeds. Apparently, even the Swiss find it enjoyable to read this honest and objective essays by 'outsiders' living within their borders.This is a completely different type of book from either a tourist guidebook, or a guide to Euro etiquette. Those books have their place also, but don't limit yourself to them.