The opening hours of a Swiss shop surprise a British writer. However, he appreciates punctuality and reliability in his adopted country.
in short needed
- Writer Deacon Beves experienced a culture shock when he moved to Switzerland 17 years ago.
- Shop opening hours are the same as it was in 1982.
- But it was great that everyone followed many rules.
Deacon Bewes became famous with the book “Der Schweizerwester”. In this he wants to show people how he sees Switzerland and why he loves it. Britain tells SRF’s “faces and stories” about what it doesn’t like about its adopted country. Seventeen years ago he moved to Switzerland out of love.
At first he had culture shock. Because he had come to Bern from the 24 Hours Society of London, where the opening hours are the same as in 1982. The fact that everything is closed from 5 p.m. to Monday mornings on Saturdays still makes them wonder, “retail business hasn’t arrived in the 21st century”.
He also found the time when recycling is allowed to be special: “You can save the planet, but only on Mondays.” There are other rules in Switzerland: cross the street only when it is green, no music after 10 pm, wash only on the appointed day. But everyone will stick to it. “That’s why it works,” says author Dickon Beves.
Another example he mentioned is a large display in front of a bookstore. “There are no security guards or cameras, anyone can just take anything. But nobody does, it’s great.”
Should shops remain open on Sundays as well?
21%
Yes, I still want to be able to shop then.
1
Yes, I still want to be able to shop then.
79%
No, employees are eligible for one day off.
2
No, employees are eligible for one day off.
He also appreciates the Swiss’ reliability and punctuality, although he has one disadvantage: “You get used to it. Today when I miss the connection because the train is late, I get angry – very Swiss.”
More on the topic:
