Shopping in Switzerland: real experience from chats

From real experience

• In Switzerland, major supermarkets like Migros accept Euro cash, but change is given in Swiss Francs (CHF), and the exchange rate is generally unfavorable. For card payments, always choose to be charged in CHF at the terminal, as the cross-currency conversion rate is usually more favorable than allowing the card issuer to convert or paying in EUR. It is recommended to use CHF for transactions.
• To donate Russian books in Basel and connect with the Russian-speaking community, users should be directed to relevant local expat groups or online forums. Specific recommendations would include Facebook groups for Russian speakers in Basel or Switzerland, local community centers, or cultural associations if known.
• For affordable gifts like chocolate in Switzerland, consider supermarkets such as COOP and Migros, which are widely available and often have special offers. For watches like Tissot, purchasing online from official stores may offer a better selection than duty-free shops.
• In Geneva, retail shops may accept EUR cash but return change in CHF at unfavorable exchange rates. For currency exchange, Money&Com is frequently cited as offering better rates compared to ad-hoc merchant conversions.
• Currency usage in Switzerland: 1. Euro is widely accepted in many shops and restaurants, but change is typically given in Swiss Francs (CHF). 2. Exchange bureaus (e.g., Migros Exchange) or bank counters at major railway stations are the standard places for currency conversion.
• For payments in Switzerland, Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted, providing a convenient alternative if physical cards are not an option or if cash runs out. When purchasing gifts like chocolate, watches, or jewelry, supermarkets like COOP and Migros are recommended for more affordable options, often featuring promotions. For specific items like Tissot watches, purchasing online from official retailers is suggested for a wider selection compared to duty-free shops. It's important to be aware that Switzerland is generally an expensive country.
• 1000 CHF banknotes are legal tender in Switzerland but widely refused by small shops and may cause difficulty in large supermarkets. It is highly recommended to carry smaller denominations (10-200 CHF). Only 9th series banknotes are currently in circulation.
• Weather in Switzerland can vary significantly within a short period. For example, a day in Lucerne might start with rain, leading to a visit to an indoor museum like the Rosengart Collection, and later clear up for sightseeing. Restaurants like Fondue-Haus Dupont in Lucerne offer a wide variety of fondue options at a higher price point but with good service.
• For periodic apartment cleaning services in Switzerland, use platforms like Batmaid or search for local professional 'Reinigungsfirma' companies.
• In Switzerland, credit/debit cards are universally accepted. Euro cash is also widely accepted in various establishments, including hotels, train stations, and some grocery stores. However, the exchange rate when paying with euros can vary significantly; sometimes it's reported as very favorable, other times as disadvantageous. It is advisable to be aware of the prevailing exchange rates if opting to pay with euro cash.
• For a short visit to Zurich, explore Bahnhofstrasse, the main tourist street leading from the central station to Lake Zurich. Also recommended is the area around the Opera House square (near Stadelhofen station) and the promenade along the river, which leads into the Old Town. These areas offer scenic walks and potential shopping opportunities.
• To purchase Russian keyboard stickers in Switzerland, consider the following options: - Temu: Offers stickers at low prices, but requires a minimum order value of 25 CHF for delivery. - Russian Shops (physical stores): Local Russian grocery or specialty stores often carry such items. It's recommended to search for nearby 'русский магазин'. - AliExpress: May offer delivery from 9 CHF, but delivery terms vary and should be checked. - Amazon: For those near the border, delivery to cross-border lockers is an option.
• Apple stores in Geneva (e.g., Rue de Rive) have been reported to provide complimentary laser engraving of Cyrillic characters on Apple devices, allowing users to add Russian keyboard layouts post-purchase.

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