Who says Switzerland has to be expensive? Here’s a way to visit it without breaking the bank.
The period from July to October is considered to be the best season to go to Switzerland. And if you thought that the place is meant only for those with loads of money and not fot those who have to manage a holiday in a limited budget, you might want a re-think.
While most travel companies in India take you to Switzerland for seven to eight days for a minimum of Rs80,000 to Rs90,000 (it also goes up to Rs1,25,000), the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trip can work out to Rs50,000 to Rs60,000. Here’s how.
Stay
In Switzerland you can hire apartments in most places.
They are fully equipped with a kitchenette, utensils and dishwasher and in some apartments there are also washing machines and swimming pools.
They also provide you with linen. Simply log on to www.interhome.in. to see photographs of apartments in Switzerland and other parts of Europe. Payment can be made online.
Tip: It costs approximately Rs30,000 for an apartment for four, for seven days.
Out and about
If you book your tickets well in advance you can avail of special airfares at a concession and you get return tickets for as much as Rs22,000 or less.
All of Switzerland and especially the South, is well connected with trains, boats and buses.
A single Swiss rail pass will entitle you to travel in each of these modes of transport all over the country. The pass gives you concessions on guided city tours, adventure sports, cable cars, a free entry to 400 museums in the country and more.
Those below 16 years can travel for free. For those below 26 years, there is a youth ‘concession’ pass.
And then there is also a family saver pack. Check the timetable and book
passes on www.sbb.ch.
Tip: A Swiss rail pass will cost approximately Rs15,000 per person for eight days.
Food
Food here is quite expensive hence it is recommended to carry items and can cook meals in the apartment. Take-away service is recommended as this is cheaper.
Sightseeing
There’s so much to see in Switzerland — from the mountains to museums to chocolate factories and more. It’s a good idea to visit Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, which are newer and less expensive destinations.
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