Switzerland

Souvenirs from Switzerland

Visitors to the Swiss Confederation often come in search of Alpine peaks, cuckoo clocks and chocolate. However, souvenirs from Switzerland offer more than just kitsch. They can provide a portable glimpse into the country's history and culture, and are perfect for sharing. A Swiss Army Knife, compact and packed with tools, would be a useful and practical gift for any man, or anyone who appreciates quality tools. Watches are precision made, and many world famous brands have originated here, making them ideal Swiss souvenirs. If you are seeking handicrafts, paper cut pictures, depicting natural themes or daily scenes, are quite lovely and intricate. Embroidered fabrics, turned into household linens and clothing, are another way to appreciate traditional life. Schnapps is a potent liqueur, made from various fruits and herbs, that is popular when added to coffee. Of course, one can never forget to purchase all of the postcards, T-shirts, key chains and magnets for friends and family.

Swiss Chocolate

Switzerland's main export is the sweet, brown and luscious candy known as chocolate. Most of the world's most famous chocolatiers are based from this country, and proudly continue on the centuries old traditions. While the majority of the ingredients are imported, it is vital that milk from Swiss cows be used in production. It is believed that the diet of these bovines, consisting of the grass and clovers from mountain meadows, gives the chocolate its unique flavor. The per capita consumption of chocolate in Switzerland is double that of other European countries. In fact, the Swiss Army gives daily chocolate rations to its soldiers and the expected gift for most occasions is a box of chocolate. You will find many varieties of the candy, fitting the season or specialty of the town it originates from. Traditionally, bunnies are made for the springtime, and chocolate mushrooms and nuts are found during fall.