Best Carolyn Schonafinger Podcasts (2024)

1
The BEST day trips from Lucerne! Top Swiss mountain excursions and charming towns to visit. 35:11

4h ago35:11

35:11

Whether you're looking to scale mountain peaks, enjoy serene lakeside towns, or discover hidden gems, Lucerne offers a wealth of opportunities for every traveler in Switzerland. While the city itself is a delight to explore, one of Lucerne's greatest assets is its access to some of the most breathtaking day and half-day excursions in the region. In…

1
Sustainable Travel in Switzerland with Lisa Arnet from Swisstainable 31:13

6d ago31:13

31:13

We speak to Lisa Arnet from the Swiss Tourism Federation about sustainable tourism in Switzerland. The classification “Swisstainable” was created around three years ago. While it stated with only a few service providers, over 2,000 businesses and multiple destinations are involved today. Lisa explains the three dimensions of sustainability, how the…

1
Why the Luzern Interlaken Express is Switzerland's must-ride scenic train (and how to book it) 18:01

16d ago18:01

18:01

Planning a trip to Switzerland can be both thrilling and overwhelming. With so many breathtaking destinations to choose from, it's hard to know which scenic train journey to get. In this episode, I am joined by Swiss travel expert Chris Rigert to share insights about the Luzern Interlaken Express, a spectacular two-hour journey between Lucerne and …

1
7 unforgettable highlights + tips from my recent Switzerland trip to help you plan yours! 41:38

20d ago41:38

41:38

Ever felt excited but a bit stressed about planning a trip to Switzerland? I get it! Picking the best places to visit, sorting out how to get around, and finding the right spots to stay can seem like a lot. Join me as I share the highlights and insights from my recent three-week adventure through Switzerland! Fresh from the journey, I dive into a d…

1
Save on your Swiss vacation! Visit 20+ mountains for free with the Berner Oberland Pass 31:25

1M ago31:25

31:25

Are you looking to explore the breathtaking Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland? Join me as I chat with Jana Amacher, the manager of the Berner Oberland Pass, and discover the incredible benefits of this all-in-one ticket for exploring one of Switzerland's most stunning areas. In this episode, you'll learn about some fantastic destinations you c…

1
International Associations in Switzerland, with the Zurich International Women's Association 47:51

1M ago47:51

47:51

We speak to four women from the Zurich International Women’s Association about social groups and expat life in Switzerland. Karin, Martha, Debbie, and Carolina offer diverse perspectives on finding a social network. They speak about topics such as how to approach your neighbours, what you can do to meet others in your community, and how to juggle w…

1
Things to do in Grindelwald. A local’s guide to the best activities and excursions. 34:33

2M ago34:33

34:33

Planning a trip to Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region can be as daunting as it is exciting. With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, deciding where to base yourself can make or break your Swiss holiday experience. In this episode, I dive deep into the charming destination of Grindelwald (towns don’t get any more authentically Swiss than this!…

1
Why Autumn is the best time to visit Switzerland (Travel tips from local experts) 18:00

2M ago18:00

18:00

Have you ever wondered, “What is the best time to visit Switzerland?” If you're considering a trip to this stunning country, Switzerland in autumn might just be the perfect answer. In this special 100th episode, we'll explore the incredible beauty of autumn in Switzerland. During fall, the Swiss landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vi…

1
Exploring Switzerland with Carolyn Schönafinger (from Holidays to Switzerland) 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

We speak to Carolyn Schönafinger from Holidays to Switzerland about travelling around Switzerland. Carolyn has been visiting Switzerland for over 30 years and runs her own travel podcast. She tells us about four famous places (Lucerne, the Berner Oberland, Zermatt, and Montreux) as well as several destinations off the beaten track. We also talk abo…

1
How to plan your perfect Swiss adventure on the Gotthard Panorama Express 24:02

3M ago24:02

24:02

Planning a trip to Switzerland can be overwhelming. With so many beautiful places to see, how do you ensure you're choosing the best experiences that make every moment count? Today, we’re going to uncover the lesser-known yet breathtaking Gotthard Panorama Express. This unique travel experience combines a relaxing boat cruise on the picturesque Lak…

1
How to respect local customs and etiquette on your Swiss vacation 36:55

3M ago36:55

36:55

Are you dreaming of visiting Switzerland but feeling unsure about the cultural norms and etiquette? As a visitor in a foreign country, it's natural to worry about unintentionally offending locals or committing social faux pas. In this episode, I chat with Kathrin Spinnler, who was born and raised in Switzerland, to get her expert advice on navigati…

1
IT Training in Switzerland with Serge Frech 25:37

3M ago25:37

25:37

We speak to Serge Frech, the director of the Swiss national association of ICT training (ICT-Berufsbildung), about basic and continued IT training in Switzerland. Unlike in many countries, most Swiss IT professionals complete vocational training. After achieving a basic degree, they can continue their education by obtaining a federal or advanced fe…

1
15 FAQs about train travel in Switzerland answered 23:34

4M ago23:34

23:34

Are you planning to see scenic Switzerland by train? In this episode, Carolyn answers 15 of the most frequently asked questions by travellers who plan to travel Switzerland by train. If you’ve ever wondered if there are weight limits for luggage on Swiss trains, or have asked ‘do Swiss trains have toilets?’, these questions and many more will be an…

1
Mount Stanserhorn: Add this mountain peak in Switzerland to your must-visit list! 17:59

4M ago17:59

17:59

Are you ready to ride on the world's first and only open-air double-decker cable car? Join us in this episode as Carolyn chats with Lena Häfelfinger to learn all about visiting Mt. Stanserhorn. Lena shares the many reasons to visit the mountain which include great views over Lake Lucerne, hiking, learning about the local flora and fauna, and dining…

1
Moving to Zurich for Work with Laura Vrinceanu 38:12

4M ago38:12

38:12

We speak to Laura Vrinceanu, who got her IT job through Rigby, about moving to Zurich, Switzerland. Laura relocated a year and a half ago to work for a bank as a Tableau developer. With seven years of professional experience under her belt, she is committed to never stop learning and strive for excellence in her field of work. Moving to Zurich has …

1
Visiting Switzerland? Add these 5 stunning waterfalls to your Switzerland itinerary 38:45

5M ago38:45

38:45

Let's go in search of five of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland! In this episode, our guest, Melinda Schoutens, joins us to tell us about some of her favourite Swiss waterfalls. Each of these breathtaking waterfalls in Switzerland are easily reached by public transport - or on foot if you enjoy a hike - and will be a highlight of your Sw…

1
World record experiences for your Switzerland vacation 16:17

5M ago16:17

16:17

It may be the incredible scenery of mountains and lakes that has made visiting Switzerland a high priority for you but the country is also famous for its engineering prowess. In fact, Switzerland is home to many examples of pioneering innovation and design - many of which are world firsts - that you may like to include in your Swiss vacation. In th…

1
Swiss Education: Local, Bilingual, or International? 34:04

5M ago34:04

34:04

We speak to the Swiss education consultant Stefanie Busse about local, bilingual, and international schools in Switzerland. As a former German teacher, Stefanie has first-hand experience teaching in both public and international schools in Switzerland. She has been advising expat families for over 10 years about the Swiss education system and colla…

1
Visiting Schilthorn Piz Gloria for 360 degree views of the Swiss Skyline 30:55

6M ago30:55

30:55

In this episode, Carolyn chats with Alan Ramsay from Schilthorn cableways to learn more about the new Schilthorn construction project that is currently underway. Alan also discusses the various ways to reach the Schilthorn, what to do at the Schilthorn and the intermediate stations, and how you can enjoy a delicious brunch in the Piz Gloria revolvi…

1
Uncovering the delights of the Emmental Valley 27:40

6M ago27:40

27:40

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Hana Hurabova. With over a decade living and exploring Switzerland, Hana has become a true Swiss local. Her extensive knowledge on exploring Switzerland has attracted attention from other travellers looking for help with their travel planning. Hana shares with us one of her favourite, largely undiscovered, part…

1
Swiss Food Traditions with Jessica Manurung and David Moginier 38:05

6M ago38:05

38:05

We speak to the food experts Jessica Manurung and David Moginier about regional foods in Switzerland, particularly in the cantons of Basel and Vaud. Jessica is a Basel-based food blogger. She has been sharing her restaurant recommendations on social media since 2019. Last year, she published the Basel Cookbook, sharing a mix of innovative and tradi…

1
Top Swiss travel tips for 2024 21:26

7M ago21:26

21:26

In this episode, Carolyn shares her top 10 Swiss travel tips for 2024. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or it’s your first time visiting Switzerland, these tips will help you to plan, book and experience your dream vacation in Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: Why you should consider travelling out of peak season When you should book your…

1
Things to do in Zurich beyond the tourist trail 42:03

7M ago42:03

42:03

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Seraina Engert, a Zurich local who loves exploring the city she calls home. Seraina shares her favourite things to do in Zurich including places to visit in Zurich that are mostly only visited by locals. You can expect to hear about fantastic views over Zurich, wonderful flea markets and interesting funky bars.…

1
Discovering rails, trails and hidden gems on a Switzerland Alps vacation 27:42

8M ago27:42

27:42

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andrea Caspani from Echo Rails and Trails. Andrea chats about the company's signature 12 day Swiss Alps Grand Rail Tour, an all inclusive Switzerland vacation by train. This Swiss guided tour includes visits to the most popular destinations, features beautiful panoramic train rides and breathtaking mountain exc…

1
Setting up your finances in Switzerland with The Poor Swiss 31:22

8M ago31:22

31:22

In this episode, we speak to the finance blogger Baptiste Wicht about Switzerland’s financial system. Baptiste has been running his blog The Poor Swiss for over six years. He helps expats and locals find the best financial products such as savings and investment accounts, pension providers, and credit cards. He also writes about financial independe…

1
Switzerland’s Hidden Charms: Exploring Enchanting Villages 42:57

8M ago42:57

42:57

Are you yearning to explore the tranquil and enchanting villages of Switzerland? In this episode we are joined by Kevin Quattropani, the founder of the Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland Association. Kevin takes us on a journey through some of his favourite villages, offering a unique perspective on Switzerland beyond the bustling cities of Bas…

1
Scenic Swiss train routes to discover in 2024 39:14

8M ago39:14

39:14

In this episode we welcome back regular guest, Andy Nef, who brings us up to date with changes to some of the Swiss rail products for 2024. Andy also shares some lesser-known scenic train and bus routes in Switzerland that you might like to consider including in your itinerary. Listen now to learn about: Price increases for rail travel and the Swis…

1
The Swiss Art Scene with Nikolai Kleist Burkal 37:56

8M ago37:56

37:56

In this episode, we speak to the artist Nikolai Kleist Burkal about art in Switzerland. Nikolai grew up in Greenland and has lived in several countries before settling in Switzerland in 2022 due to a work opportunity. He runs the platform Art-Beats, where he publishes articles on the pulse of art scenes, trends, and art activities internationally. …

1
How to travel sustainably in Switzerland 39:48

9M ago39:48

39:48

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Simon Bosshart, Head of Markets East and member of the management board of Switzerland Tourism. Simon shares why everyone travelling in Switzerland should travel responsibly and as sustainably as possible. He also shares what every traveller can do to make a difference in travelling responsibly and sustainably.…

1
The Grand Explorer Tour of Switzerland: an unforgettable small group journey 25:43

9M ago25:43

25:43

When it comes to choosing how to travel around Switzerland, renting a car or travelling by train are the two options you’ll likely consider. These modes of transport are fantastic for folks who like to travel independently but for travellers who would rather not have to worry about driving or adhering to train timetables, a small group tour is a wo…

1
Switzerland and Immigration: Celebrating Immigrants’ Contributions in Switzerland 31:26

10M ago31:26

31:26

In this episode, we speak to the authors Anita Lehmann and Katie Hayoz about immigration in Switzerland. Anita and Katie have recently published a book called 50 Amazing Swiss Immigrants. It features people of all walks of life, both historical and contemporary, who have made Switzerland their home. Join us as we talk about common reasons for movin…

1
How to use public transport in Switzerland 34:25

10M ago34:25

34:25

Would you like to travel Switzerland by train? If you’re not a regular public transport user, the idea of hopping on and off trains in a foreign country and understanding how the public transport system works can be a bit intimidating. Your fears will be put to rest in this episode as our guest, Andy Nef from Swiss Travel System, shares all the inf…

1
Discovering the many charms of canton Valais 38:54

10M ago38:54

38:54

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Mario Braide and Emilie Morard as they share details about the spectacular region of Valais. From breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and charming villages, to natural and man-made attractions and traditional festivals. There’s something to suit the interest of every traveller visiting Valais. Listen now to…

1
Schwiizerdütsch: Exploring Swiss German 49:00

11M ago49:00

49:00

In this episode, we speak to Swiss German teacher Rahel Roth and bestselling cartoonist/author Sergio Lievano about Swiss German. We explore whether expats should learn this dialect or focus on standard German instead. Rahel’s series of books, Swiss German for English Speakers, is one of the few resources that teaches Swiss German from scratch. Ser…

1
Trip Report: Visiting Switzerland with Kids 33:51

11M ago33:51

33:51

In this episode Carolyn is joined by Carrie Nicholes who recently returned from a family trip to Switzerland. Although they only had five days to spend in Switzerland, Carrie was able to plan a trip that included visiting a variety of locations. Carrie's Swiss vacation included activities that both the adults and children enjoyed, creating wonderfu…

1
How to plan your Switzerland itinerary 23:03

11M ago23:03

23:03

In this episode Carolyn shares with us the tools and resources she uses to plan her Swiss itinerary and how to decide which places to visit. She also shares some classic itineraries for first time travellers to Switzerland and tells us the three main ways to book you trip. Listen now to learn about: Step by step guide on how Carolyn plans her Swiss…

1
Socialising, Part 2: The Swiss Social Scene with Ben Crawshaw 32:23

12M ago32:23

32:23

In this episode, we speak to Ben Crawshaw from Zurich Together about how newcomers can use expat groups to build long-lasting friendships. Originally from Manchester, Ben moved to Switzerland as a child. He is an event manager and the founder of Zurich Together, a large international community that hosts a wide range of events in and around Zurich.…

1
Matterhorn Alpine Crossing - Connecting Switzerland and Italy by cable car 19:33

12M ago19:33

19:33

In this episode we are joined by Claudia Wyss from Zermatt Cableways. Claudia shares with us all the details about the new Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the recently opened cableway connection between Zermatt in Switzerland and Cervinia in Italy. Listen now to learn about: Everything about the new Matterhorn Alpine cable car crossing What the trip fr…

1
Visiting Switzerland in Fall (Everything you need to know) 35:24

1y ago35:24

35:24

Fall (autumn) is an underrated but perfect season to visit Switzerland. Join us as, together with Simon Bosshart from Switzerland Tourism, we explore the many reasons to visit Switzerland in fall. We discuss the weather, the festivals and events that take place and why fall is the ideal time of year to visit Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: …

1
Top short breaks and day tours from Zurich 36:00

1y ago36:00

36:00

Our guest in this episode is Amanda Wee from Best of Switzerland Tours. Amanda tells us about the most popular day and multi-day tours that are available from Zurich. Popular tours include mountain excursions and tours that visit picturesque rural areas of Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: The most popular mountain day trips Other tours that …

1
Socialising as a Newcomer/Expat in Switzerland 38:46

1y ago38:46

38:46

In this episode, we speak to James Macsay and Margaret Reilly Baer from the American International Club Zurich about how expats can build a social network in Switzerland. Margaret is the president of the AICZ, and James is on the board of the Association of American Clubs. They have both been living in Switzerland for many years, and they’re part o…

1
Living in Switzerland announcement 1:19

1y ago1:19

1:19

Hi everyone, It’s Daniel here from Rigby. I hope you’re all doing well and enjoying the summer so far, and I'd like to take a moment to thank you for joining us and following the podcast until now. We recently crossed the two-year milestone since we started, and during that time we've looked into quite a few different topics and spoken with lots of…

1
8 amazing experiences to include in your Switzerland vacation 42:52

1y ago42:52

42:52

In this episode, Carolyn shares 8 fantastic new experiences she has enjoyed on her recent visit to Switzerland. Over the course of nearly a month, Carolyn explored vast areas of Switzerland. From mountain peaks near Lucerne to breathtaking lake trips in Brienz, she had the most wonderful trip to date. Listen now to learn about: Tamina Therme, a pop…

1
Tips for planning your excursion on the nostalgic Brienz Rothorn Bahn steam train 23:48

1y ago23:48

23:48

In this episode, our guest Dominique Horne from Brienz Rothorn Railways tells us all about Switzerland's only daily steam train, the Brienz Rothorn train. Dominique shares the history of the steam railway and tells us why visitors to the Berner Oberland should consider including a ride on the train in their itinerary. She also has some handy tips t…

1
The Swiss School System with Margaret Oertig, Episode 2 28:31

1y ago28:31

28:31

In this episode we welcome back Margaret Oertig, to continue the conversation about schools in Switzerland. In our first call together we covered what’s different about the Swiss school system, what is taught at Kindergarten, getting ready for secondary school, common issues that incomers sometimes find challenging, the different paths available in…

1
Lugano Region - The Swiss Region with Italian Flair 45:34

1y ago45:34

45:34

In this episode, we are joined by Daniela Gugliotta Bagaian from Lugano Region Tourism. Daniela tells us all about the fantastic Lugano Region and all the things you should experience while you are there. Located in the southern part of Switzerland and right next to the Italian border, Lugano shares a lot of Italian culture, making it a unique dest…

1
4 fantastic (and easy) hikes to enjoy in Switzerland 36:21

1y ago36:21

36:21

In this episode, we are joined by Melinda Schoutens, an avid hiker and the author of the Fresh Air Kids Switzerland book series that inspires readers to connect with nature. Melinda has lots of great tips and practical advice for anyone planning to enjoy a hike in Switzerland. She tells us what we need to do to prepare for a hike and shares with us…

1
The Swiss School System with Margaret Oertig 27:48

1y ago27:48

27:48

Today we’d like introduce you to another member of our team, who will be joining us on the podcast, Kathrin Spinnler! Kathrin is Swiss, from Bern originally, currently living and working in the UK. Kathrin has a background in the Swiss education system and is part of our content team here at Rigby. In this episode, we’ll be talking about the Swiss …

1
Bernina Express Train Switzerland: From Glaciers to Palm Trees 29:26

1y ago29:26

29:26

In this episode, we are joined by Camille Härdi from Rhaetian Railways, operators of the premium panoramic train known as the Bernina Express. The Bernina Express is one of the great train journeys of the world and it connects Chur and St. Moritz in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. Camille has lots of great info to share with us including the high…

1
Discovering the hidden gems of the Interlaken Holiday Region 47:24

1+ y ago47:24

47:24

In this episode, we are joined by Renato Julier from Interlaken Tourism. Renato tells us about all the wonderful things to do in the Interlaken Holiday Region, including its beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Listen now to learn about: Why Interlaken attracts so many tourists Things to see and do around Lake Brienz and Lake Thun Hidden gem…

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Carolyn Schonafinger Podcasts

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