Klosters: A Swiss Alpine Haven

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-te]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
• How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gate es een-en]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont een-en]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-leesh]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh neekt]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkh-teh bit-te dee shpy-suh-kar-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh es-se kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte bezahlen
  [ikh merkh-teh bit-te beh-tzah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [heel-feh]
• Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [geh-en zee vehg]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsy]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen ahrtz]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-beh meekh feh-reert]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krahnk]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [ikh merkh-teh ... kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shoo-eh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel koh-stet es]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs eest tsoy toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [kern-en zee den prise zehn-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpet eest es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es eest iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb (zehn)
  [hahlp (tsayn)]
• MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mit-tahk]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• 1Eins
  [eyns]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
• 3Drei
  [drey]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foonf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo eest iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas eest dee ah-dreh-suh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kern-en zee meer tsay-gen (owf dehr kar-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nekhs-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-nuh fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh ....)]

Klosters, nestled in the scenic Prättigau Valley of Switzerland, traces its origins back to the 13th century. The village's name is derived from the Latin word 'claustrum,' meaning cloister, indicative of the monastic settlements that played a pivotal role in the area's early development. These settlements were instrumental in cultivating the land and establishing the foundations for the community that would grow into the Klosters we know today.

In the 14th century, the Walser people, originally from the Valais region, migrated to Klosters. They brought with them their distinct language, culture, and agricultural practices, significantly influencing the development of the village. The Walser's skills in alpine farming and their resilient spirit helped Klosters thrive despite the challenging mountainous terrain.

The 16th century Reformation left a profound mark on Klosters. The area, influenced by the spread of Protestantism, experienced significant religious and social changes. The shift from Catholicism to Protestantism was not without conflict, but it eventually led to a more unified and resilient community that adapted to the sweeping changes of the era.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Klosters transform into a prominent winter sports destination. The construction of the Rhätische Bahn railway in 1889 made the area more accessible to tourists, spurring the development of hotels and ski resorts. Klosters became renowned for its picturesque landscapes and excellent skiing conditions, attracting visitors from around the world, including notable figures such as members of the British royal family.

During World War II, Klosters, like much of Switzerland, maintained a stance of neutrality. The village served as a sanctuary for many seeking refuge from the conflict. In the post-war period, Klosters experienced a boom in tourism, with the construction of modern amenities and infrastructure to accommodate the growing influx of visitors. This era marked the beginning of Klosters' reputation as a luxury ski resort, beloved by celebrities and the global elite.

Klosters is rich in cultural heritage, with traditions that have been preserved through centuries. The village hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its history, such as the annual 'Chalandamarz' festival, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine are integral to these celebrations, offering visitors a glimpse into the enduring cultural tapestry of Klosters.

Today, Klosters seamlessly blends its historical charm with modern luxury. The village continues to be a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts, while also offering a range of activities year-round, from hiking and mountain biking to cultural tours. Despite its popularity as a high-end resort, Klosters has managed to retain its quaint alpine village atmosphere, making it a unique and cherished destination.

Klosters is located in the Graubünden canton of Switzerland. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), approximately 150 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a direct train to Landquart, and then transfer to another train heading to Klosters. The journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car at Zurich Airport and drive to Klosters, which takes about 2 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Klosters is a compact village, and many attractions are within walking distance. The local bus service is efficient and connects Klosters with nearby villages and ski resorts. For more flexibility, renting a car is an option, but parking can be limited in peak tourist seasons. Taxis are available but can be expensive. For a unique experience, take the Gotschna cable car up to the ski areas or for hiking in the summer.

The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Klosters for cash withdrawals. Some places may also accept Euros, but the exchange rate may not be favorable.

Klosters is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in transport hubs and busy tourist spots.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Klosters. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the village where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The nearest hospital is in Davos, approximately 12 kilometers away.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, especially in winter, as temperatures can fluctuate. Avoid overly casual clothing in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Switzerland is predominantly Christian, but there is a diverse religious presence. Public Transport: Do be punctual and have a valid ticket before boarding. Don't speak loudly or disturb others on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello in Swiss German). A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like fondue and rösti. Don’t rush through meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Switzerland.

To experience Klosters like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market where you can buy fresh produce and local cheeses. Engage with locals, as they are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the area. Don't miss the traditional Swiss festivals held throughout the year, such as Fasnacht (Carnival) and the Alpabzug (cattle descent). For a unique experience, take a scenic train ride on the Rhaetian Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.