CU-BSC.TTM-SEM-III-Tourism Products Europe & America- Second Draft

 In Switzerland's forests, there are squirrels and deer, rabbits and foxes. And if you are around Zermatt, you might see the domesticated Valais Blacknose sheep. Golden eagles are among the biggest birds of prey in Switzerland. They can grow up to 2 m/ 7 ft. 10.2 VARIOUS TOURIST DESTINATIONS OF SWITZERLAND  For ravishing alpine scenery and quaint villages oozing storybook charm, it's hard to beat Switzerland. The soaring snow-capped peaks of the Alps, glittering blue lakes, emerald valleys, glaciers, and picturesque lakeside hamlets imbue this landlocked nation with a fairytale beauty. Snuggled amid the mountain valleys and lakes lie world-class international resorts and a long list of things to do, including hiking, biking, climbing, paragliding, skiing, and tobogganing.  Travelers come here for jaw-dropping scenery but are charmed by the many cultural attractions. Steeped in history, cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne offer excellent museums and galleries, historic buildings, and renowned music festivals. The capital is Bern with a stunning medieval old town hugging the crook of a river. Germany, Italy, Austria, and France border Switzerland, and their languages and customs infuse this country with a multicultural sophistication.  From the Italian architecture of palm-studded Ticino to the dialects of Swiss-German and Latin-derived Romansch, Switzerland can sometimes feel like several countries in one—yet all with the slick packaging and punctuality for which it is famous.  Plan your trip and explore the best sites with our list of the top tourist attractions in Switzerland. 1. The Matterhorn 201 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 10.6 Matterhorn in Alp’s  The Matterhorn, Switzerland's iconic pointed peak is one of the highest mountains in the Alps. On the border with Italy, this legendary peak rises to 4,478 meters, and its four steep faces lie in the direction of the compass points. The first summiting in 1865 ended tragically when four climbers fell to their death during the descent. Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here each summer.  At the foot of this mighty peak, lies the charming village of Zermatt, a top international resort with horse-drawn carriage rides, quaint chalets, and world-class restaurants and hotels. To preserve the air quality and peaceful ambiance, motorized vehicles are banned in the village.  In the winter, skiers can schuss down more than 300 kilometers of slopes. In the summer, swimming and tennis are popular pursuits as well as hiking, biking, and climbing in the surrounding mountains. Summer glacier skiing is also available. 2. Jungfraujoch: The Top of Europe 202 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure:10.7 – Jungfrau, Europe.  One of the most popular things to do in the beautiful Bernese Oberland is the train journey to Jungfraujoch, the \"Top of Europe,\" with an observation terrace and scientific observatory perched at 3,454 meters. The longest glacier in Europe, the Great Aletsch Glacier begins at Jungfraujoch, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous Eiger Trail from the Eiger glacier station to Alpiglen clings to the rocks at the foot of the north face.  Other popular walks include Panorama Way to the sunny, south-facing First slope; the Gletscherschlucht (Glacier Gorge); and Öpfelchüechliwäg, the high-altitude trail from Holenstein to Brandegg through fields of flowers, alpine pastures, and woodlands. The less active can ride gondolas and cable cars to scenic viewpoints over the Lauterbrunnen Valley.  Picturesque Grindelwald is a glacier village in the Jungfrau region, which makes a great base for adventures into the surrounding mountains. It nestles at the base of snow-cloaked mountains and is one of Switzerland's oldest and most popular resorts. Towering above this alpine valley is the tiara-shaped Wetterhorn and the sheer north face of the Eiger, one of the planet's most dramatic and difficult climbs. Between the mountains lie Grindelwald's two glinting glaciers. For the best views, Faulhorn, at 2,681 meters, offers breathtaking panoramas of the giant peaks. 3. Interlaken 203 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 10.8 – Interlaken Resorts, Switzerland  Nestled between Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, Interlaken is one of Switzerland's most popular summer holiday resorts. In the center of town, Höhematte is a marvel of urban planning with 35 acres of open space. Flower gardens, hotels, and cafés surround the Höheweg, the main boulevard through here with breathtaking vistas of the mountains. The mighty peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau tower above the town providing excellent opportunities for alpine adventures. Hiking, climbing, abseiling, and kayaking are prime pursuits.  More than 45 mountain railways, cable cars, chairlifts, and ski lifts transport visitors into the surrounding countryside and offer plenty of chances for sightseeing from up above. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders can take their pick from the surrounding resorts and cross-country ski along the extensive trail network. In the summer, paragliders launch from Beatenberg-Niederhorn. To admire the scenery from lower elevations, hop aboard a paddle steamer for a cruise around the lakes. 4. Lucerne 204 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure:10.9 – Lucerne, Sparkling Lake.  Imagine a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains, a car-free medieval old town, covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains. No wonder Lucerne (in German, Luzern) is a top spot for tourists. Famed for its music concerts, this quintessential Swiss town lures renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to its annual International Music Festival. The Culture and Convention Center is home to one of the world's leading concert halls.  One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Chapel Bridge, built in the 14th century. In a small park, lies the famous Lion Monument, a poignant sculpture of a dying lion, which honors the heroic death of Swiss Guards during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution. History buffs will enjoy the Swiss Transport Museum with extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.  For beautiful views of Lucerne, the Alps, and the lake, ride the funicular to the Dietschiberg on the north side of Lake Lucerne; cruise up Mt. Pilatus on the cableway; or head to the Rigi, a famous lookout point. 5. Lake Geneva 205 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 10.10 - Lake Geneva  Lake Geneva, Europe's largest Alpine lake, straddles the Swiss/French border, and laps at the shores of some of Switzerland's most popular cities. The city of Geneva (in French Genève; in German Genf) sits between pretty snow-capped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva.  This French-speaking \"capital of peace\" is the European seat of the United Nations and exudes a pleasing blend of French joie de vivre and Swiss structure. Promenades, parks, and gardens surround the lake, and the old town is a lovely spot to stroll among the historic buildings. The Jet d'Eau, a fountain in Lake Geneva shooting water 150 meters into the air, is a famous landmark. Cultural attractions include the Opera House and the Grand Théâtre, which stages international acts.  Also on the lake, about 62 kilometers from Geneva, Lausanne boasts lovely views over the surrounding region and the lake, with the Alps rising in the distance. Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its cute cafés and boutiques and stunning Gothic cathedral. At the foot of the Alps, on Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in June/July. 6. Chateau de Chillon, Montreux 206 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure:10.11 - Chillon castle, Lake Geneva.  On the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux, the Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Lord Byron, Jean Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo are among the luminaries who have written about this architectural treasure.  Once the stronghold of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy from the 12th century, the complex encompasses about 25 buildings clustered around three courtyards. Highlights include the Great Halls, with magnificent views of Lake Geneva; the Gothic underground rooms; the Chapel, adorned with 14th-century paintings; and the Camera Domini, a bedroom occupied by the Duke of Savoy decorated with medieval murals. 7. St. Moritz Figure: 10.12 - St. Moritz  Mirror-like lakes, glaciers, jagged peaks, alpine forests, and oodles of sunshine make St. Moritz one of the world's top mountain destinations and a must-have on your list of things to 207 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

do in Switzerland. Palatial hotels and pricey restaurants are par for the course at this chic resort town, which has hosted two winter Olympics.  Sitting in an alpine valley 1,800 meters above sea level, the town is divided into two parts: St. Moritz Dorf sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lake of St. Moritz. The other part of town, lakeside St. Moritz Bad on the valley floor, is a health resort with less expensive lodging. Winter sports run the gamut, from skiing, snowboarding, skating, and bobsledding to tobogganing on the famous 1.2-kilometer-long Cresta Run.  In the summer, hiking, biking, and water sports abound. Glacier skiing is also available in the summer. Adding to all this spectacular mountain scenery, St. Moritz is a cultural crossroads. Romansch, German, Italian, French, and English are all spoken in the surrounding areas—not to mention the different languages of the many well-heeled international visitors and expats. 8. Bern Figure: 10.13 - River Aare  In a stunning location, perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, the Swiss capital of Bern exudes old world charm, and the city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can explore the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, with panoramic views from its tower; 16th-century fountains; the Zytglogge medieval clock tower with moving puppets; and six kilometers of shopping arcades, called \"Lauren\" by the locals. The Rose Garden (Rosengarten) offers beautiful views of the old town center. 208 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Bern has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered, including many excellent museums. Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries, including the Zendrum Paul Klee, the world's largest collection of works by this famous artist, and the Bern Museum of Art (Kunst museum). Don't miss the markets, held in the Underplate (parliament square) with views of the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building (Bundeshaus). Families will also enjoy a visit to the Bear Park. 9. Lake Lugano and Ticino Figure: 10.14 - Lake Lugano and Ticino  Lake Lugano lies on the Swiss/Italian border in Ticino, Switzerland's only official Italian-speaking canton, and offers a tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean. Citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate here—even as snow-capped peaks beckon in the distance. In the towns around Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore to the west, the feel of Italy is unmistakable in the architecture, the piazzas, and the passion for fine food, which spills over the Italian borders from the south, east, and west.  Visitors can explore the area by touring the lake on one of the white steamers or renting a boat. For a panoramic overview, Monte San Salvatore offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, lake, and snow-capped peaks.  Lugano, a financial center and the largest and most significant town in Ticino, is a popular summer resort. Northwest of Lugano, in sun-drenched Locarno on Lake Maggiore, Swiss lakeside living takes on a subtropical touch with warm days, blossoming gardens, and 209 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

palm-studded estates. In Bellinzona, capital of the canton, three magnificent castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites. 10. Zurich Figure: 10.15 - Lake Zurich, Major Transportation Hub.  Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, a major transportation hub, and a top starting point for travelers. The city lies at the northwestern end of Lake Zurich astride the river Limmat. Beyond its buttoned-up façade, this affluent banking capital boasts a rich line-up of cultural treasures.  A great place to begin a walking tour is the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. Mile-long Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe's finest shopping strands, beckons with designer stores selling fashion, watches, and jewelry.  Venturing away from the boutiques, visitors will find more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as many other tourist attractions. A top pick is the Kunsthaus Zürich, the museum of fine arts, with an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Another favorite is the Rietberg Museum, focusing on non-European art with many works from China, India, and Africa.  A short stroll from Zürich's main station, the Swiss National Museum, in a Gothic chateau, spotlights Swiss cultural history. Families will love the Zurich Zoo with an elephant park, 210 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

penguin parade, and Madagascar pavilion. From the city, take a train ride to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and countryside. 10.3 SUMMARY  Switzerland is a landlocked country in Central Europe  Switzerland is about half the size of Austria or slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey/USA  The steepest cog railway in the world is going up Pilatus mountain in Lucerne. The gradient of the track reaches up to 48%.  The deepest lake of Switzerland is the Lago Maggiore in the southern part of Switzerland.  Food in Switzerland is very rich in taste and they have many specialties like fondue, swiss chocolate, raclette, muesli and alplermacaroi 10.4 KEYWORD  Raclette - Raclette is a Swiss dish, also popular in Savoie, France, based on heating cheese and scraping off the melted part.  Muesli - museli is a cold oatmeal dish based on rolled oats and ingredients like grains, nuts, seeds and fresh or dried fruits.  Alplermacaroni – A swiss dish made of Alpine Macroni sauce.  Fondue - is a Swiss melted cheese dish served in a communal pot over a portable stove heated with a candle or spirit lamp and eaten by dipping bread into the cheese using long-stemmed forks.  Bobsledding- Bobsleigh or bobsled is a team winter sport that involves making timed runs down narrow, twisting, banked, iced tracks in a gravity-powered sleigh.  Tobogganing - A toboggan is a simple sled traditionally used by children. It is also a traditional form of transport used by the Innu and Cree of northern Canada. 10.5 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1. Ask someone who visited Switzerland or search the web about the experience of experiencing world’s one of the beautiful countries 211 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

___________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 2. Prepare a tour plan for some beautiful locations in Switzerland ___________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 10.6 UNIT END QUESTIONS A. Descriptive Questions Short Questions 1. To which all countries do Switzerland share its border? 2. Why is Switzerland landlocked with Europe? 3. Write about the deepest lake in Switzerland? 4. What is the current population of Switzerland? 5. How much does Switzerland contribute to world’s population and land mass? Long Questions 1. Explain any 5-tourist destination in Switzerland. 2. Discuss about the location of swiss in Europe. 3. Highlight the superlative of swiss. 4. Describe Switzerland. B. Multiple choice Questions: 212 1. Switzerland is a landlocked country in a. southern Europe b. Northern Europe c. Western Europe d. Central Europe 2.________ a financial center a. Lugano CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

b. Bern 213 c. Brazil d. chile 3.The Swiss Aletsch Glacier is the ________glacier in Europe a. longest b. largest c. biggest d. smallest 4. National Day of Switzerland is on: a. 1 August b. 30 July c. 21 march d. 28 may 5. Capital of Switzerland is: a. Austria b. chile c. Madrid d. Bern Answers 1-d ,2-a,3-a,4-a,5-d 10.7 REFERENCES Reference books  Specific Country Guide Books of Lonely Planet Publication.  DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Europe CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 A.K Bhatia – International Tourism Mgt.  International Geography for Travel and Tourism by John P.Wrades 214 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)