Articles by this author
'We pay our taxes': Foreigners in Switzerland troubled by rise in hostility
Negative attitudes towards foreigners have risen in Switzerland, with new proposals to limit, or even severely restrict, the number of new arrivals. Many foreign residents in Switzerland tell us they are extremely concerned.
What's Switzerland's problem with EU free movement?
Talks between Switzerland and the European Union have hit a wall over immigration. But why is Switzerland seeking to limit free movement?
The EU is in 'Barbieland' and becoming more xenophobic, new report warns
The European Union is in a ‘Barbieland’, presenting itself as a model of harmony and unity while beneath the surface several tensions threaten the unity of the bloc. At least, that’s the verdict of the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) in a new report.
What are Switzerland's autumn cow processions and where can I see one?
Autumn in Switzerland: Falling leaves, cooling breezes and… cows? Yes, the arrival of cows (and goats and sheep) from the mountain pastures is a treasured Swiss tradition and a clear sign that the colder months have arrived.
Delays ahead as Austria's western train route partially closes
One of Austria’s most important rail routes, between Vienna and Salzburg, will be partially closed for several weeks this summer.
'Geneva flops': Swiss city singled out for lacking direct European train connections
Geneva has been singled out as lacking direct train connections to other major European cities, according to a new Greenpeace analysis.
How Europe's new EES border checks will impact flight passengers
When the EU’s Entry / Exit System (EES) is introduced it will end the stamping of passports for non-EU travellers. Passengers arriving at Europe's airports should be aware of the changes.
10 unforgettable places to stay in Germany
Whether you want to catnap in a castle, sleep in a sportscar or bunk in a brewery, it is all possible on a holiday in Germany.
How the new EES passport system will change your Eurostar journey
The EU/Schengen area's new Entry/Exit System (EES) will impact non-EU travellers when it's eventually launched, not least those travelling on Eurostar's cross-channel trains. New details have been revealed for how the changes will affect those passengers.
Why and how often do Swiss towns change their official language?
With four official spoken languages—French, German, Italian, and Romansh—Switzerland has a linguistic diversity that puts other European nations to shame. You won’t be surprised to learn, then, that this isn’t a static situation.
Where along Switzerland's borders are you most likely to face checks?
Switzerland might be in the Schengen zone where border are meant to be a thing of the past but travellers crossing into one of the country's neighbours could face police or customs checks. Share your own experiences below.
Which parts of Austria have the highest crime rates?
Austria is generally viewed as a safe country in which to live and work. However, crime still does occur, and it’s important to know where and what kind of crimes are occurring.
HISTORY: Almost two centuries on, who was Kaspar Hauser?
It's one of the great all-time mysteries, not just of German history. A young man appears in Nuremberg, seemingly raised in complete isolation. But was he a prince?
How long are Austria's famous Christmas markets open this year?
One of the highlights of the year in Austria can be readily enjoyed anywhere in the country - its legendary Christmas markets. But how long do they stay open in the evening - and do some remain open until the New Year?
Five huge brands you (probably) didn't know were Austrian
Austria has given the world a lot, from (in)famous figures to timeless works of art. The central European nation has also birthed several brands that are now household names.
'No job, no money': How German immigration office delays hurt lives of foreign workers
More than a month after emergency appointments were announced to deal with long queues and lengthy delays, a lack of action from Stuttgart's immigration authority continues to cause hardship and difficulties for many foreigners.
The best Christmas markets in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate
Christmas is a time when Germany's south-west really shines. The region's Christmas markets, or 'Weihnachtsmärkte', are one of the highlights of the festive season.
Austrians warned as country remains dependent on Russia for gas supplies
Despite almost two years of Russia's war against Ukraine, Austria continues to receive over half of its natural gas supplies from the aggressor, according to new data.
'It led to divorce': How US tax rules burden Americans in Germany
While everyone who moves to Germany faces their own particular challenges, Americans living and working in the country are increasingly reporting anxiety and financial headaches due to US tax rules.