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A Tradition of Excellence in Swiss Hospitality
Management EducationWelcome Handbook
1. Before You Arrive: Visa and Travel Information 3
2. What to Bring 6
3. ShmS Caux 10
4. ShmS Leysin 16
5. Academic Services 22
6. Your Life on Campus 24
7. Other Facilities and Useful Information 26
8. Switzerland and General Information 29
Visa and Travel Information
1. Before You Arrive:
4
Before You Arrive: Visa and Travel Information
Visa ApplicationIt is important to apply for your student visa at least 8-12 weeks before the start of the course at your local Swiss Embassy/Consulate.
To apply for the student visa, the following enclosures are required:
Visa requirements vary for each country so you should check with the Swiss Embassy/Consulate in your country before applying.
For more information, www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps.html
After your arrival in Switzerland, the school will obtain necessary permits for study and work placement.
Pre-departure SessionsOrganised by the local representative in many countries for students to meet each other and to receive a briefing on how to prepare for their stay in Switzerland.
Arrival Time/DatesCheck-in weekend begins at noon on the Fri-day of the induction weekend. From this time, you will be able to move into your accom-modation and have your meals at the school. Students should not arrive at school before this time.
If it is unavoidable for you to arrive before Friday, it will be necessary to arrange your own accommodation.
Transfer from Geneva Airport to SHMSFor students arriving at Geneva airport, the school can arrange a transfer. For more infor-mation, please contact your local representa-tive or the admissions office. It is important that your arrival details are communicated no
1. 3x visa application form, duly filled in, dated and signed (available at the local Swiss Embassy/Consulate) www.bfm. admin.ch/bfm/en/home/themen/ einreise/visumantragsformular.html 2. 4 recent passport-size photos in colour (adapted to the Schengen requirements) 3. Valid passport 4. School confirmation letter 5. Proof of financial resources (bank statement of the applicant or applicant’s parents)
6. Diploma/certificates of completed studies with an official translation 7. English certification (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, etc.) 8. Résumé (curriculum vitae) 9. motivation letter and study plan 10. Written confirmation that the applicant will leave Switzerland after the request- ed stay.
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Before You Arrive: Visa and Travel Information
later than three weeks before the beginning of the semester to the following e-mail address: [email protected]
The following information should be supplied:• Ms/Mr, student first name and last name • Date of birth• Arrival date• Arrival time• Airline and flight number• Arriving from• Destination: school and course• Any flight connection: airline, flight number and airport
Geneva airport also has its own railway sta-tion. For train schedule and price, please check the website: www.sbb.ch
Welcome DeskOver the induction weekend, a Swiss Educa-tion Group welcome desk operates at Ge-neva airport (Friday noon till Sunday night 6 pm). Located immediately after the custom clearance the desk is marked with the Swiss Education Group logo:
Transfer from Zurich Airport to SHMSZurich airport has its own railway station in Basement 2 ofTerminal B. It takes about four hours to Caux or Leysin. Train tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter in Basement 1 or ticket machine before boarding the train and all major credit cards are accepted. For train schedule and price, please check the fol-lowing website: www.sbb.chPlease note that transfers are not normally organised from Zurich airport.
Arrival by CarFor those arriving with their own transport, check your itinerary on www.viamichelin.ch entering your school’s address.
Induction WeekendOver the induction weekend, students will be involved in an orientation programme. This gives an introduction to the courses and life-style at school.
A series of checkpoints are set up to help students get acquainted with the school. Uni-form, class schedule and books will also be distributed during this time.
We strongly recommend for you to arrive no later than 4 p.m. on Sunday.
2. What to Bring
7
What to Bring
Caux Campus Uniforms are to be worn by all students from monday to Friday from 7 a.m. until 7.30 p.m.
Female students will receive:• 1 school blazer• 1 skirt (knee length) or 1 pair of trousers• 1 scarf
Male students will receive:• 1 school blazer• 1 pair of trousers• 1 tie
Leysin Campus Students at Leysin will not be provided with a uniform and must bring a business suit to wear. Business suits must be worn by all stu-dents from monday to Friday from 7 a.m. until 7.30 p.m. Business suits must be compli-mentary and dark in colour.
To complete the school uniform, all female students are asked to bring:• 6 white blouses with collar - long sleeves, cotton, classic style• 2 pairs of black business shoes with hee (no loafers, slippers etc)l• 1 grey or black wool sweater/pullover (to wear under the uniform jacket) • 6 pairs of tights/stockings - beige, black or grey• 2 black skirts or trousers (service uniform)
To complete the school uniform, allmale students are asked to bring:• 6 white shirts - long sleeves, cotton, classic style• 2 pairs of black business shoes• 1 grey or black wool sweater/pullover (to wear under the uniform jacket)• 6 pairs of black socks• 2 pairs of black trousers (service uniform)
Additional blazers, skirts, trousers, scarves and ties can be purchased from the house-keeping department. For prices, please con-tact the reception.
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What to Bring
Kitchen and Restaurant UniformProfessional uniform for the kitchen and res-taurant practical classes are loaned to the students during the semester.
Additional ClothingYou should bring a business suit (to be worn when uniform is being cleaned; a uniform dispensation is required from reception).
For winter weather• Thick padded jacket or overcoat• Sweaters• Gloves and scarves• Sturdy waterproof shoes• Warm hat
For special eventsA traditional costume from your home country could prove to be useful for special events.
Smart Casual DressWhen you are not in school uniform, bear in mind that as a student of a hotel management school, it is important that the image you pro-ject is professional. During the opening stages of the semester our lecturers may advise you on your dress. Please take these comments as sound advice and act accordingly.
make sure that you maintain these standards during both the academic semester and your internship!
Name TagStudents will receive a name tag and a school pin and are required to wear them during class hours and while on professional excur-sions. (The name tag is to be worn horizon-tally on the left side of the chest).
LaptopAlthough the school provides a modern IT resource centre, we encourage you to bring your own laptop. Laptops must be formatted to connect to the school network. This will be organised by the IT helpdesk when you arrive at school.
Please note that it is essential that your computer is run-ning an English operating system (Windows or mac). If you do not have an English operating system it will be available to purchase at a discounted student rate.
International Power AdaptorBelow is a picture of a Swiss power socket.
An adaptor may be required to plug in elec-trical appliances; such devices are usually available from travel shops and in airports.
Miscellaneous Items• Alarm clock• Calculator• Dictionary• Toiletries (shampoo, etc.)• Stationery supplies (pens, pencils, paper,
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What to Bring
paperclips, etc.)• Backpack/book bag• Laundry bag• Travellers money belt• Umbrella and raincoat• Small sewing kit• Photocopies of important documents such as passport, previous education qualifications and work experience
Pocket MoneyStudents will require pocket money in order to purchase toiletries, postage, phone calls and participate in leisure activities outside of school hours. The amount depends on the leisure activities undertaken, but a suggested minimum amount is ChF 100.- per week.
Items Forbidden on all Campuses• Electrical appliances such as kettles, irons, heating elements, rice cookers, toasters, cooking appliances, etc. (hair dryers and sound systems are permitted). This is a very important fire prevention rule• Weapons and substitutes (pocket knives) are strictly forbidden• Only medicines issued on prescription by a registered doctor may be brought to school. The Swiss hotel management School has a no drugs policy, inside and outside campus• Alcohol - no alcohol is to be brought on to the school premises by students
Switzerland & General information
3. SHMS Caux
11
ShmS Caux
General Information
ShmS Caux is located in the French speak-ing part of Switzerland, above the well-known town of montreux and overlooking Lake Geneva.
housed in the historic Caux Palace, the cam-pus enjoys a unique situation. As one of the first Palace Hotels built in Switzerland, the Caux Palace and offers a truly unique place to study.
Study Facilities
CampusThe main building, Caux Palace, holds all classrooms, accommodation, training restau-rants and the academic and operation offices. Several external buildings are also available for accommodation.
Training Restaurants Year 1 Bachelor and Postgraduate students will be trained in service in three of the res-taurants on campus:• Four Seasons, international buffet• Buffet de la Gare, open to the public• Le Caux Palace, fine-dining restaurant
Training KitchenYear 1 Bachelor and Postgraduate students will do practical kitchen training with our pro-fessional chefs in our state-of-the-art com-mercial kitchen.
Learning Resource CentreA full-time librarian is on hand, in the well-stocked library, to assist with your questions. Students also have access to a wide range of online catalogues and articles.
Recreational Facilities
RestaurantsYou will have the choice to eat in any of the restaurants available on campus: Four Seasons or Le Caux Palace. All meals in these restau-rants are included in your fees (Le Caux Pal-ace Restaurant upon reservation).
Buffet de la GareBuffet de la Gare is a Swiss-style restaurant open to students and the general public. The concept of opening to the public allows stud-nets to learn in a real-life environment.
Coffee Beans Lounge BarCoffee Beans is the Swiss Education Group’s own franchise of coffee shops. Run by our in-house trainees it serves a wide range of hot and cold beverages as well as snacks and sandwiches. You will find it on the fourth floor of the Caux Palace next to the recep-tion area.
Internet Café The Internet café, located next to the lobby, is the perfect place to check your e-mail, keep up-to-date with world news and catch up with your family and friends on Facebook!
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ShmS Caux
GymThe gym provides a selection of weight ma-chines, as well as aerobic training facilities. Located next to the main building, it is the perfect place to expend your energy! When using the fitness facilities ensure that you are informed about the specifics of each machine and that you use the equipment properly. Any misuse of fitness equipment may lead to injury.
Student BarThe Grotto is the best place to relax at the end of a hard days study. On weekends the Grotto turns up the heat with the disco open for the exclusive use of students.
Vending MachinesCold drinks and snacks are available in vending machines located on the first, third and fourth floor.
Other Information
Room KeyEach live-in student will be issued with a mag-netic key card which will give them access to the building as well as their room. If a key is lost or damaged, a replacement can be ob-tained from the reception for ChF 40.-. Keys are required to be returned at the end of each semester.
Internet AccessA wireless connection exits throughout all school buildings for student use.
PrintersStudents receive a rechargeable print-card with credits at the start of each semester to use the printers, which are located around the campus.
Laundry RoomA fully equipped student laundry is available in Caux Palace with washers, dryers and iron-ing boards. These facilities are card-operated. Cards are available for purchase from the reception. Irons must be borrowed from the reception.
School E-mailAll students will be provided with a school e-mail address through which they will receive all school-related information. Students are required to check their e-mail on a regular basis in order to keep up to date with the school’s operations.
MailIncoming student mail will be distributed daily to students’ pigeon holes (located at the reception).
Telephone Calls and FaxesPublic phones are available in the school. Students can make outside phone calls with phone cards (available in nearby shops).Stu-dents who have a phone in their room may receive incoming calls. The number is a direct line.Faxes destined to students can be sent to the reception fax at the following number:+41 (0)21 962 99 75
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Wine TripEach semester the school organises a wine trip for students, to learn more about the wines studied during classes and which pro-vides the opportunity to discover new re-gions.
Spring and BallAll students are invited to attend this ma-jor event organised on campus. A celebra-tion shared by all Swiss hotel management School students and prepared and served by staff members.
International DayA major event that celebrates the different nationalities represented at the school by demonstrating their culture and traditions. A large number of VIPs from embassies and consulates are represented as well as people from the hospitality industry.
Sports DayEach semester a sports competition is organ-ised between all schools of the Swiss Educa-tion Group; all students are invited to join a team and cheer for their school!
Graduation CeremonyThis important event in the life of a student is hosted in the Grand Theatre in Caux. Fol-lowing the ceremony all graduating students and their friends and family are invited to a cocktail party.
Note: these events are subject to change.
Events at SHMS Caux
having a good quality of life includes having access to sports, physical activity, the out-doors, excursions, museums, arts, local herit-age, festivals, individual hobbies and interests. The Sports and Leisure Coordinator works hard to organise a wide variety of sport and leisure activities throughout the semester.
Welcome CocktailOrganised at the beginning of every semes-ter, students are invited to meet and get to know each other.
International Recruitment ForumEach semester the International Recruitment Forum brings representatives from some of the world’s leading hospitality companies to meet students and present internship and graduate positions. An important occasion to network for future job opportunities!
BanquetsAs part of the curricular programme, Year 2 Bachelor and Postgraduate students organise banquets, which are fantastic events at the Swiss hotel mangement School!
Faxes should display the name of the recipient and will be distributed to the students’pigeon holes.
ShmS Caux
14
Activities in Caux,Montreux
Night LifeCinemas, nightclubs, pubs and a casino are all available in the local area.
Lake PromenadeThe lake promenade in montreux is very at-tractive with its range of outside restaurants, artists, musicians and markets and is very popular during the spring, summer and au-tumn evenings.
Boat ExcursionsSeveral different boat excursions on Lake Ge-neva can be boarded from montreux. For more information, please visit: www.cgn.ch/eng
Hotels in Caux/Montreux
Due to space limitations, the school is unable to provide accommodation for visitors.
however, the school has special rates with hotels in Caux/montreux. For more details, please contact the reception. For more infor-mation about rates and availability of hotels in montreux, visit the following website: www.montreux.ch/tourism
Public Transport
A cog railway goes from montreux to Caux in 20 minutes, the train pass is included in the school fee. All buses in montreux are also in-cluded in the pass.
Public Buses Public buses run between montreux, Vevey and Villeneuve. For timetables, please visit: www.vmcv.ch
TrainThe montreux train station is a starting point for any destination in Switzerland. For timetables, please visit: www.sbb.ch/en/index.htm
ShmS Caux
15
Useful Contacts
Caux PalaceCh-1824 Cauxmontreux - Switzerland Tel. +41 (0)21 962 95 55 - Fax +41 (0)21 962 99 75
For general information: [email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)21 962 95 55
For administration purposes (e.g. enrolment, visa, etc.):[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)21 962 99 45
For academic information:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)21 962 99 70
For your room location:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)21 962 95 55
For health insurance matters:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)21 962 99 60
For sending information about your flights (airport pick-ups):[email protected]
Emergency phone number: Tel. +41 (0)21 962 93 12 This emergency number is attended 24 hours a day and should only be used in case of emergency.
ShmS Caux
TaxisReadily available at montreux train station, they are however quite expensive.
Switzerland & General information
4. SHMS Leysin
17
ShmS Leysin
General Information
The Leysin campus is in the heart of Leysin-Village (1,264 m), at the base of its ski resort. Leysin benefits from an exceptional sun ex-posure and has much to offer year-round.
Study Facilities
CampusShmS Leysin is housed in two former hotels, the mont-Blanc Palace and the Belvédère, linked by the ShmS Skytrain.
Training RestaurantsPostgraduate operations students will be trained in restaurant service in each of the three restaurants:• Market Place, international buffet • Sitio, international buffet• Mont-Blanc Palace, fine-dining restaurant
Training KitchenPostgraduate operations students will do practical kitchen training with our profes-sional chefs in our state-of-the-art commer-cial kitchen.
Learning Resource CentreA full-time librarian is on hand, in the well-stocked library, to assist with your questions. Students also have access to a wide range of online catalogues and articles.
Recreational Facilities
RestaurantsYou will have the choice to eat in any of the restaurants available on campus: market Place, Sitio or mont-Blanc Palace. All meals in these restaurants are included in your fees (mont-Blanc Palace upon res-ervation).
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ShmS Leysin
Culinary StudioAs part of the curricular programme, the mIB students run the two Culinary Studios on the Leysin campus. from A to Z. Offering a new, creative concept every semester and apply-ing their knowledge in every operational and administrative aspect of running a restaurant. The Culinary Studio looks forward to wel-coming you!
Coffee BeansCoffee Beans is the Swiss Education Group’s own brand of coffee shop that opens for students as well as for the general public. It offers a diverse range of coffee, tea and hot chocolate, as well as snacks and pastries.
Club Maxx BarClub maxx is a lounge bar open in the eve-nings from Sunday until Thursday and turns into a nightclub for Friday and Saturday eve-nings. This facility is for the exclusive use of students.
Beleza Beauty SpaCome and discover ShmS-Leysin’s recently in-augurated Spa and Beauty Salon, let our team of professionals pamper you with their selec-tion of treatments, including massages, mani-cure, pedicure, depilation and hair-dressing, all at a preferential student rate!
Spa and Wellness CentreThe wellness centre is fully equipped with a sauna, jacuzzi and steam room. It opens on alternating days for male and female students.
GymThe gym provides a selection of weight ma-chines, as well as aerobic training facilities.When using the fitness facilities ensure that you are informed about the specifics of each machine and that you use the equipment properly. Any misuse of fitness equipment may lead to injury.
Internet Café/CornersThe computers are all equipped with high-speed Internet connection. Check your e-mail or catch up with your family and friends on Facebook!
Vending MachinesVending machines are located in both the mont-Blanc Palace and Belvédère building.
Student KitchenThere is a student kitchen available, which you may book in order to enjoy private dinner amongst friends and cook your favourite food.
Other Information
Internet AccessA wireless connection exists throughout all school buildings for student use.
Printers and CopiersStudents receive a rechargeable print-card with credits at the start of each semester to use the printers, which are located around the campus.
19
ShmS Leysin
Room KeyStudents will be issued with a key to their room, which should be used carefully and kept safely. If a key is lost or damaged, a re-placement can be obtained from the recep-tion for ChF 150.-. Keys are required to be returned at the end of each semester.
Laundry RoomA self-service laundry is available in every accommodation building. The laundry ma-chines are card-operated and cards are avail-able for purchase from the reception. Irons can be borrowed from the reception.
School e-mailYou will be provided with a school e-mail address through which you will receive all school related information. You are required to check your e-mails on a regular basis in order to keep up-to-date with the school’s operations.
MailIncoming student mail will be distributed daily in the mailbox rooms. It is important to in-form your family and friends of your room number as well as the school’s address.
Registered Mail and ParcelsIf you receive a registered letter or a par-cel, you will be notified by e-mail to collect it from the reception. You are requested to come in person (don’t send a friend!) and will have to sign the school’s logbook.
Telephone Calls and FaxesYou can receive phone calls directly to your room. The phone number of your room will be communicated upon your arrival. Students can make outside phone calls from their rooms using calling cards (available in nearby stores). Faxes destined to students can be sent to the reception fax at the following number: +41 (0)24 493 26 66Faxes should display the name of the recipient. You will then be informed by e-mail that a fax has been received for you and is available for pick-up. If you wish to send a fax, you may do so from the reception for a minimal charge.
Events at SHMS Leysin
having a good quality of life includes having access to sports, physical activity, the out-doors, excursions, museums, arts, local herit-age, festivals, individual hobbies and interests. The school’s Sports and Leisure Coordinator works hard to organise a wide variety of sport and leisure activities throughout the semester.
International Recruitment ForumEach semester the International Recruitment Forum brings representatives from some of the world’s leading hospitality companies to meet students and present internship and graduate positions. An important occasion to network for future job opportunities!
Theme Nights and BanquetsAs part of their curricular programme, stu-dents will organise and attend banquets, which are fantastic creative events in school!
20
ShmS Leysin
Spring and Christmas BallStudents are invited to attend a major event organised by the school. It is a celebration shared by all the students and prepared and served by staff members.
Sports DayOnce per semester a sports competition is organised between all Swiss Education Group schools; all students are invited to join a team and cheer for their school!
World of Hospitality The signature event of ShmS Leysin where students demonstrate what they have learned in the classroom. Industry guests, lo-cal residents and VIPs are invited to this spec-tacular event.
Graduation CeremonyThis important event in the life of a student is hosted in the Grand hall. Following the cere-mony all graduating students and their friends and family are invited to a cocktail party.
Note: these events are subject to change.
Activities in Leysin
Outdoor ActivitiesLeysin is famous for the many outdoor pos-sibilities it offers such as skiing, sledging, rock-climbing, hiking, biking and many more.
Indoor SportsTwo sports centres offer a wide range of facilities both indoor and outdoor. Swim-ming pools, skating rink, tennis courts, squash courts, climbing wall, fitness rooms and a multi-sport hall.
TobogganingOne of Leysin’s most popular attractions is the tobogganing park, a series of slopes and half-pipe corridors through which you slide down on an inflatable doughnut. Not for the faint-hearted!
Kuklos Revolving Restaurant Located at a height of 2,048 metres, enjoy a meal while admiring the 360° panorama featuring some of Europe’s highest and most renowned peaks.
Night LifeLeysin being a university town and tourist re-sort, has much to offer to its young visitors with restaurants, bars, clubs and a cinema.
For more information regarding the activities, social life and accommodation in Leysin, don’t hesitate to visit the Leysin Tourism website at www.leysin.ch/en/
Hotels in Leysin
The school is unable to provide accommo-dation for relatives and friends of students. however, the school has special rates with hotels in Leysin. For more details, please con-tact the reception.
To find information about rates and availability of hotels in Leysin, please visit the following website: www.leysin.ch/en
TrainThe Aigle train station is a starting point for any destination in Switzerland and many of the surrounding countries.
TaxisTaxi companies operate in Leysin and the sur-rounding region. however, they are expensive.
Public Transport
A cog railway connects Leysin to the town of Aigle in 30 minutes. The train pass for this line is included in the school fees.
ShmS Leysin is located directly opposite the Leysin-Feydey stop.
Useful Contacts
SHMS Leysinmont-Blanc Palace - 1854 Leysin - SwitzerlandTel. +41 (0)24 493 23 00 - Fax +41 (0)24 493 23 33
For general information:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)24 493 26 00
For administration purposes (e.g. enrolment, visa, etc.):[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)24 493 23 23
For academic information:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)24 493 24 78
For your room location:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)24 493 23 00
For health insurance matters:[email protected] - Tel. +41 (0)24 493 24 43
For sending information about your flights (airport pick-ups):[email protected]
Emergency phone number:Tel. +41 (0)24 493 2888This emergency number is attended 24 hours a day and should only be used in case of emergency.
ShmS Leysin
Switzerland & General information
5. Academic Services
Academic Services
Academic OfficeAssists students with any administrative is-sues related to academics: study attesta-tions, records of achievement, diplomas, class schedules, module exemptions, etc.
Administration OfficeAvailable for any questions regarding student visas, resident permits, invoices and other en-rolment information.
Internship OfficeThe internship office places Year 1 Bachelor, Postgraduate and direct entry students for professional training in Switzerland or abroad. They also assist older students with their in-ternship questions.
Study Advisor Scheme (SAS)The study advisor scheme provides stu-dents with assistance and guidance in their
academic studies by offering additional sup-port in a variety of subjects.
Computer RoomThe computer room is accessible to stu-dents outside of class hours.
Module Exemption and ProceduresStudents who have thorough knowledge or qualifications in a module may be exempted. Exemption requests must be made during the first two weeks of the semester.
The appropriate form, available from the academic office must be submitted to the module lecturer in the first week of the aca-demic semester accompanied by supporting documents (transcripts, course descriptions and learning objectives).
Switzerland & General information
6. Your Life on Campus
25
Your Life on Campus
AccommodationAt the time of your enrolment you have cho-sen one of the following room types:• Double standard (included in the fees)• Single standard• Double deluxe• Single deluxe• Double superior deluxe• Single superior deluxe
Double standard rooms are reserved upon the reception of the deposit payment. All other room types can only be confirmed once full payment of school fees has been re-ceived. Allocation is made on a first pay, first served basis.
Holiday Periods
SHMS Caux & SHMS Leysin The Swiss hotel management School is able to accomodate students during the winter break at an additional charge. Accommoda-tion can be provided in either ShmS Caux or ShmS Leysin (students may therefore have to move campus for this duration).
Housekeeping ServiceLinen and towels are provided for students and rooms are cleaned once per week by the housekeeping team. Students are required to keep their room at an acceptable level of tidi-ness at all times.
MealsFull board is provided 7 days a week, 3 meals on weekdays and 2 meals (brunch and din-ner) at weekends.
A range of options are offered at all meal times with vegetarian and non-pork/beef menus available. Students requiring a special diet due to medical reasons should inform the student counsellor upon their arrival at school. A medical certificate will be required.
For students who observe Ramadan, spe-cial arrangements for meals can be arranged upon request.
Student Counsellor The student counsellor is available for stu-dents who wish to discuss health issues or social problems.
Any medical problem that may prevent you from attending class will need to be reported immediately to the student counsellor. Failure to inform the counsellor may result in non-excused absences from class.
Sport and Leisure Coordinator The sport and leisure coordinator is at the disposal of the students and organises weekly sporting activities and excursions..
Switzerland & General information
7. Other Facilities and Useful Information
27
Other Facilities and Useful Information
ReceptionThe reception staff is at your disposal from monday to Friday. Outside of opening hours a residence supervisor is on call.
Luggage RoomDuring your internship periods you will have the opportunity to store one piece of luggage or one standard box in the school’s luggage room for a maximum period of six months. All items must be clearly labelled and locked or sealed. This service is free of charge and the school will not be held responsible for any damages or loss of possessions stored.
ParkingParking spaces are limited and should be re-quested in advance. For more information, please contact your local representative or the reception.
Health Care and Medical InsuranceThe school provides its students with health care coverage (including the daily cost of hos-pitalisation in a shared room) and for corpo-ral accident both on and off-school premises in Switzerland and abroad. In case of accident or illness, students should first contact the re-ception or the student counsellor who will organise further action. Only medicines pre-scribed by doctors are covered and dental care is not included in the coverage.
All medical bills should be forwarded to the school’s health insurance coordinator and must not be paid by the student.
MedicinesSome standard medicines are available at the student counsellor’s office or the front desk in case of emergency. For legal reasons, you will have to sign a discharge every time you ask for medicine.
Refundable DepositThis deposit is a security deposit from which can be deducted the following (this list is not exhaustive): • Damages caused directly by you in your room and/or the school premises• Collective damages: these are damages that cannot be allocated to a student in particular and are therefore split between all students• Yearbook• Deductible for health insurance• Unpaid school fees under ChF 100.-
The refundable deposit is paid once in full and in following semesters the student will pay what has been used during the previous semester. The refundable deposit will be re-funded six months after the end of the last academic semester.
Safety and Security on CampusAll Swiss hotel management School buildings are equipped with camera surveillance.
A door code is used to access buildings out-side of school hours. The code, which is regu-larly changed, should not to be given to any outside person under any circumstances.
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Other Facilities and Useful Information
A fire drill will be carried out at the beginning of the semester and for your own safety, you should familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and fire escape routes.
Smoking AreasFor safety reasons, smoking is strictly prohib-ited except in designated areas.
VisitorsVisitors are more than welcome on campus during certain hours. All visitors must report to the reception upon arrival and be pro-vided with a visitor badge. An identification document will have to be presented.
Switzerland & General information
8. Switzerland and General Information
30
Switzerland and General Information
There are a vast range of activities, sites and destinations for students to enjoy during their time in Switzerland and students are encouraged to explore as much as possible during their stay.
Local Region From the Aquaparc in Le Bouveret, the world’s largest maze at the Labyrinth Adven-ture in Evionnaz, Chillon Castle, on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Glacier of Diablerets and the wine and vine museum in Aigle, the local region abounds with places to discover.
LausanneAttractions include the Olympic museum, the Quai d’Ouchy promenade and the old town.
GenevaVisit the St-Pierre cathedral and its ancient vaults, the old town and one of the most popular attractions, the Jet d’eau. An ideal destination for a shopping trip on a Saturday!
BernSwitzerland’s capital city has a very attractive old town with lots of style! highly recom-mended for an impressive Saturday excursion.
ZurichZurich is often referred to as the economic capital of Switzerland, it is a vibrant city, with a lot to offer and a variety of trendy bars and restaurants and a great nightlife.
Population and LanguageSwitzerland has a population of 7.7 million people. There are four native languages spo-
ken and many people also have a good English level.
German 74%French 20%Italian and Romansh 6%
Swiss People and Swiss CultureSwitzerland’s independence and neutral-ity have long played a role in the country’s culture. In more recent history, Switzerland has opened up to its European neighbours and is now an active member of the United Nations. Switzerland is active in many inter-national organisations, but retains a strong commitment to neutrality.
EconomySwitzerland is a prosperous and stable mod-ern market economy with low unemploy-ment, a highly skilled labour force and a per capita GDP (gross domestic product) larger than that of the big western European econ-omies.
HistorySwitzerland’s history has been greatly influ-enced by its geography, which divides the country into small regions. These regions were independent until 1848 when the country became a confederation. Since this time the number of regions joining the con-federation has grown to a total of 26 that now make up the country of Switzerland.
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Switzerland and General Information
ClimateGenerally speaking, spring is wet and cool, summer is warm and dry with maximum temperatures up to 35°C. Fall is usually dry, but cool. Winter is cold and dry and the temperature may drop below 0°C, especially at night. The Alps usually get a lot of snow, but even at lower elevations, it is not unusual to get a snowfall. more info on: www.mete-onews.ch
AirportsGeneva airport is the closest international airport to Caux and Leysin campus (about one and a half hours by car or train). There are daily flights between Geneva and most European capitals. Zurich airport is about three hours drive.
Getting AroundThe easiest and most affordable means of travel in Switzerland is by train. A half-fare card (demi-tarif) can be obtained at any train station and allows travel on trains at 50% of the normal fare. For more info, please visit www.sbb.ch/en/index.htm
CurrencyThe local currency is the Swiss franc. The franc notes come in ChF 10.-, 20.-, 50.-, 100.-, 200.- and 1,000.- denominations.
BanksBanks are opened from monday to Fri-day from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. depending on the branch. Foreign currency and traveller’s checks can be exchanged in most branches. Foreign Embassies in Switzerland:www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/forrep.html
Other InformationElectricityThe main voltage is 230V.
Weights and MeasuresSwitzerland uses the metric system.
TelephonePhone cards are available in Switzerland and can be bought from any post office or news-agency. For mobile phone subscriptions, en-quire at a telephone shop.
Business and Shopping HoursMost offices are open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (monday to Friday) while retail shops open from 9 am until 6.30 p.m. (monday to Friday) and 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
Religious ServicesThe predominant religions in Switzerland are Catholicism and Protestantism. Orthodox, muslim, Jewish and Anglican communities are also established in most major cities of Switzerland. Some services are held in Eng-lish, you will find more information in your local tourist information centre.
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Switzerland and General Information
Safety TipsAlthough Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, some basic personal safety rules apply:• Never leave your belongings unattended• Don’t let yourself be distracted at ATms• Don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables and always be discreet about them in public• Never hitch-hike• At night, stay on well lit streets and if possible travel in groups
In the unlikely event that something should happen, the school staff are available to assist students.
www.swissworld.org
www.swissinfo.org
www.myswitzerland.com
www.about.ch
www.standortschweiz.ch
www.switzerland.isyours.com
For more information about Switzerland, you can visit the following websites:
Switzerl and General Information
Swiss Hotel Management SchoolCaux Palace, 1824 CauxSwitzerland
Tel. +41 (0)21 962 95 55Fax +41 (0)21 962 99 75
Swiss HotelManagement Schoolmont-Blanc Palace, 1854 LeysinSwitzerland
Tel. +41 (0)24 493 23 00Fax +41 (0)24 493 23 33
member of
