Interlaken: A Swiss Paradise Between Lakes and Peaks

• HelloGuten Tag
  [goo-ten tahg]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [ouf vee-dur-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bih-tuh]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-gung]
• How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gayt es een-en]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont een-en]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shprek-en zee eng-leesh]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [eekh fair-shtay-uh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [eekh meer-khte dee spay-zuh-kahr-tuh zay-en, bih-tuh]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [eekh ess-uh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [eekh meer-khte bih-tuh tsah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-fuh]
• Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [gey-en zee vayg]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsai]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee ine-en ahrts]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [eekh hah-buh meesh fair-eert]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [eekh been krahng]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [eekh meer-khte kou-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [eekh shou-uh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kohs-tet es]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den prees zen-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist ine oor]
• Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahg]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geys-tern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoy-tuh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• 1eins
  [ines]
• 2zwei
  [tsvay]
• 3drei
  [dry]
• 4vier
  [feer]
• 5fünf
  [foonf]
• 6sechs
  [zex]
• 7sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8acht
  [ahkt]
• 9neun
  [noyn]
• 10zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist ine/der]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-dreh-suh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir das zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [ker-nen zee meer das tsay-gen (ouf der kar-tuh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt der naykhs-te (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ...)
  [ine fahr-kahr-te (nahkh)]

Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, has a rich history that dates back to the early Middle Ages. The area was initially settled by the Celts and later by the Romans, who recognized its strategic importance. Despite its remote location, Interlaken became a critical point for trade routes that connected different parts of Europe.

In the 12th century, Interlaken gained prominence with the founding of the Augustinian Monastery in 1133. This monastery became a center of religious, cultural, and economic life in the region. It was during this period that the town began to develop its unique identity. The monastery's influence extended well beyond its walls, shaping the cultural and spiritual landscape of Interlaken.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought significant changes to Interlaken. The monastery was secularized in 1528, and its lands and buildings were transferred to the state. This period marked a shift in the town’s religious and social structure, leading to new forms of community organization and governance.

Interlaken's transformation into a tourist destination began in the early 19th century. With the advent of the railway in the mid-1800s, the town became more accessible to visitors. Pioneering tourists, including notable figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Felix Mendelssohn, were captivated by its stunning natural beauty. The town's tourism industry grew rapidly, with hotels, restaurants, and other amenities springing up to cater to the influx of visitors.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked the golden age of tourism in Interlaken. The construction of grand hotels like the Victoria Jungfrau in 1865 attracted an elite clientele from across the globe. This period also saw the development of infrastructure such as the funicular to Harder Kulm in 1908, enhancing the town's appeal as a premiere holiday destination. The picturesque landscapes and the advent of winter sports further solidified Interlaken’s status in the tourism world.

Interlaken, like much of Switzerland, remained neutral during both World War I and World War II. However, the wars had indirect impacts on the town. During these periods, tourism declined sharply, and the local economy had to adapt to the changing circumstances. Despite these challenges, Interlaken managed to maintain its charm and continued to draw visitors once peace was restored.

Today, Interlaken is a vibrant hub of outdoor activities, cultural events, and natural wonder. It has successfully blended its rich historical heritage with modern amenities, offering a unique experience for visitors. The annual Unspunnenfest, a traditional Swiss festival, and the Greenfield Festival, one of Switzerland's largest rock music festivals, showcase the diverse cultural fabric of the town.

Interlaken is located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland. The nearest international airports are Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA), both of which are approximately 2 to 3 hours away by train. From either airport, you can take a direct train or transfer at Bern or Lucerne. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides efficient and scenic train services to Interlaken. Alternatively, if you're driving, the town is well-connected by Swiss highways.

Interlaken is a compact town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the surrounding areas, the town is well-served by local buses and trains. The regional transportation network, including trains operated by BOB (Berner Oberland Bahn) and buses by PostBus, is reliable and punctual. Renting a bicycle or an electric scooter is also a popular option. Taxis are available but can be expensive compared to public transport.

The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and in more remote areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Interlaken. Currency exchange services can be found at banks and exchange offices.

Interlaken is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police, fire department, and medical services are efficient and responsive. Interlaken has a regional hospital with emergency services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing in upscale establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Switzerland is largely secular, be mindful when visiting churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be punctual and validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Gruezi' or 'Hallo.' A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, including Swiss chocolate and cheese. Don’t tip excessively; a service charge is usually included in the bill.

To experience Interlaken like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their knowledge of the area. Don’t miss exploring the lesser-known hiking trails and scenic spots around Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. For a unique experience, take a boat tour on either lake or a funicular ride up to Harder Kulm for panoramic views of the region.