State Swiss currency - the Swiss Franc.On the international currency market is denoted CHF.One franc is equal to one hundred centimes.Are in circulation paper money from 10 to 1,000 francs, coins from 1 to 5 francs and coins from 5 to 50 centimes.
little history
Swiss franc is considered one of the most stable world currencies.Its history began in 1850, after gaining independence, Switzerland.The years of French rule were not in vain, and the Swiss franc equated at par to his French colleague.
tradition, long-term relations, reasonable liberal financial legislation, the neutrality of the country, high-security contributions made Swiss banks are extremely attractive for investments.In addition, the exchange rate of the currency is maintained from 1865 until 2000 in a stable ratio of 4.5 grams of silver per 0.29 grams of gold, that is observed high stability
franc currency devaluation in Switzerland experienced only once in their history - in 1936year, during the Great Depression.But following the global crisis of 1973 and 1998 franc suffered no losses.Currently, the Swiss currency is used by banks as a reserve, with a zero rate of inflation.Eastern countries prefer to use the euro instead of the Swiss franc, since the degree of confidence in the currency is much higher.
Switzerland consistently adheres to the traditions of neutrality and therefore not part of the European Community or in the countries of the "Big Eight".This allows the country's foreign policy be kept away from the high-profile economic and political crises.
Current situation Over the last few years, the Swiss franc strengthened against the euro by nearly 20%.Public authorities even had to artificially restrain the growth of the franc Such appreciation of the local currency had a negative impact on the tourist industry of the country.Increasingly, Europeans prefer the Austrian or French Alps, since the prices are more affordable, and the rest receive budget.After the 2008 crisis, it has become a very important factor.
Therefore, the owners of Swiss mountain resorts now actively lower prices: ski passes can be bought at a discount of 30%, in large discount prices on accommodation in hotels and chalets, discounts on skiing instructor, prices in restaurants decreased by 15-20%, ski equipmentoffered at a favorable exchange rate with discounts up to 20%.But even with all these measures, the ski resorts in Switzerland, remain the most expensive in Europe.Hotels generally only half filled, and you can book a chalet just before the Christmas holidays.Terms
exchange
Swiss banks work with standard eight in the morning until four to six o'clock in the evening on weekdays, with a break for lunch from twelve to two.In airports and railway stations currency can be exchanged daily from eight in the morning until ten at night.There are items around the clock.Exchange can make in banks, exchange offices in supermarkets and department stores, in some travel agencies.But Switzerland is very overvalued exchange rate, the Swiss franc so I better abroad.
In most shops you can pay in dollars or euros, to be paid also accepted major credit cards and traveler's checks.
VAT refund for purchases
Swiss VAT is 7.5%.In restaurants and hotels all taxes are included in the accounts.When one-time purchase in any store in the amount of more than 500 francs, value-added tax refunded.To do this, the store must present a passport and get a check «Tax-free Shopping».When leaving the country, you can reclaim VAT in the bank at the airport.A major department stores and the VAT reimbursed on the spot, but not necessarily with the presentation of a passport.
