Coming from a different country, like us, and experiencing the Swiss transport system for the first time is truly something unique.

Nothing can really prepare you for the ease, and the freedom it gives you as a regular person on the street. The Swiss transportation system is in fact so good, that many people who could afford more luxurious means of transport, actually choose to take things like the Swiss trains and trams due to the convenience and safety factor.

The Swiss travel system is an integrated public transportation network in Switzerland and is at the core of how this country runs so efficiently.

As a newbie, to effectively use it, follow these steps:

Plan your trip: Check the Swiss timetable for train, bus, and boat schedules and plan your route. Planning is made even easier with great companion apps (and fair prices), like the SBB app.



Get a pass: Consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats. It can be purchased online or in Switzerland. 

If you travel frequently for work or have a daily commute, the GA pass would be perfect for you.

If you're an infrequent traveler, something like the Half Fare card might be more suited. This pass is uber cheap and will mean all trips for a while year is 50% off


Do not forget your ticket. Switzerland's public transport relies on your honesty. If you're honest, it's a great experience, if you free ride, you will probably be caught eventually, and the fines are quite extreme. The best way to get your ticket will be one of the following:

Get the app for your local provider, such as SBB. This is a game-changer in the modern world. Your app will allow you to get any ticket at any time. If you buy tickets early enough, you could even get discounts, or an "easy ride", which will use location tracking to calculate the cheapest fare for your current trip.

If you are app adverse, before boarding, buy your ticket at a yellow machine found at train stations and other transportation hubs.

If there is no machine at the stop, your bus for that route will probably have a machine onboard


Check your ticket and app for your class. Sitting in first class when you only bought a second class is obviously a no as well and will get you fined too 😂


There are also some unwritten rules for riding on Swiss trains, which is good to take note of if you want to blend in with the locals:

Respect reserved seats: If a seat is reserved with a sign, do not sit in it unless it is specifically reserved for you.

Give priority to others: Offer your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers, and to those carrying heavy luggage.

Keep quiet: Avoid making loud noises or using loud music, and respect the quiet environment on the train.

Mind your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, if needed make sure your bag doesn't take up a seat in a packed train.

Don't eat smelly food: Avoid eating smelly food, especially in quiet carriages, as it can be unpleasant for other passengers.

Don't block the aisle: Do not block the aisle with luggage, as it can make it difficult for other passengers to move around the train.

Keep the train clean: Dispose of trash properly, and do not leave litter behind on the train.

If you keep the above in mind you'll be taking the Swiss public transport like a seasoned pro, and the whole country will be open to you to explore! Enjoy 🇨🇭 😊

The Swiss travel system explained

As a dog owner, you are responsible for your pet's health and well-being, including their reproductive health. Spaying and neutering are two common options for preventing unwanted litters and related health issues, but there are also alternatives, such as reversible contraception. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option and what you should consider when making a decision for your dog.

Let's first take an objective look at the 2 possible options any new pet owner is faced with.

Pros and Cons of Spaying and Neutering Dogs

Prevent unwanted litters and reduce the number of homeless dogs

Eliminate or reduce the risk of certain reproductive cancers and infections, such as mammary tumors, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, and prostate issues

Reduce or eliminate certain behavioral issues related to the heat cycle or sexual behavior, such as roaming, marking, and aggression

Prevent costly veterinary bills related to reproductive health issues, such as pyometra or testicular torsion

Carry risks associated with anesthesia and recovery

This can lead to changes in behavior, such as decreased activity levels, weight gain, or changes in urinary habits

May increase the risk of certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia or certain cancers (although the evidence is not conclusive)

Over and above the pros and cons listed above, we should also consider which of the options are indeed relevant for your specific scenario.

Factors to consider when deciding when to spay or neuter a dog:

Age: traditionally done at six months of age or older, but some vets now recommend waiting until the dog is fully grown (which can be as late as 18-24 months for larger breeds)

Health: dogs with certain health issues may not be good candidates for surgery

Behavior: spaying or neutering can have a positive impact on certain behavior issues, but may not necessarily eliminate them, and in some cases can worsen certain behavior issues

Lifestyle and living situation: spaying or neutering may be necessary to prevent unwanted litters and territorial disputes, but the timing may depend on the dog's training and competition schedule (if applicable)


We are currently facing this exact dilemma, and coming from a traditional, you must always spay world, we were caught off guard when the dog breeder and vet actually urged us to not spay our puppy citing all of the now more common facts.  They also still advised us to be responsible and make sure we get the appropriate tools and means in place to handle when our puppy goes in heat, as they really do not want unscary puppies (and we do not either). But when only looking at the best interest of your specific animal... the traditional, always spay, does not seem to be as factual as it used to be. 

Ultimately, the decision to spay or neuter a dog, and when to do so, depends on the individual dog's needs and the owner's personal values. It's important to discuss the pros and cons of each option with a veterinarian and make an informed decision.

To spay or neuter in 2023 (and still be a responsible pet parent)

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The Life of a Travel Writer with David Farley

Travel Tips

Lifestyle

Hotel Review

What to look for in a breeder when buying a puppy

The Swiss travel system explained

To spay or neuter in 2023 (and still be a responsible pet parent)

The Life of a Travel Writer with David Farley

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Travel Tips

Lifestyle

Hotel Review

What to look for in a breeder when buying a puppy

The Swiss travel system explained

To spay or neuter in 2023 (and still be a responsible pet parent)