country profile
Country profile
Liechtenstein
WHAT'S UP WITH LIECHTENSTEIN?
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Liechtenstein is a tiny alpine country squished between
Switzerland and Austria. Sitting along the River Rhine, it’s the sixth smallest
country in the world, barely being the size of Manhattan, and ideal if you want
amazing scenery while you ski (or snowboard!) in the winter. They are also the
largest producers of dentures in the world, and their wines are up there with
the best.
In 1719, the Principality of Liechtenstein was created, with a Prince as the head of state. Today, Hans-Adam II is the reigning Prince, with his son, Alois, acting as his regent. The Royal Family of Liechtenstein is one of the richest in the world, the richest in Europe, and yes, they surpass the Queen in wealth.
TRUE OR FALSE?
Being a very small country, there aren’t many stereotypes
associated with Liechtenstein and its people. However, it is true that
Liechtenstein has a massive amount of companies, but I highly doubt they’ve got
more companies than people (37,000+ in population isn’t that small). And yes, Ivoclar Vivadent AG, the world’s largest
manufacturer of false teeth is headquartered in Schaan.
HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS
Liechtenstein has two big cities—Vaduz, the capital, and
Schaan. Explore the cities. Vaduz has world-famous architecture that really
highlights its history. Compared to cities that we’re used to, they’re tiny,
making them easy to get around by walking. But of course, there is the option
of taking the Liechtenstein Bus around the capital. Also, make a friend along
the way. Liechtensteiners are pretty friendly, so maybe, you’ll be able to find
your own personal tour guide. However, expect them to be somewhat like
Germans—they keep their private life private. So, please, don’t pry!
Keep in mind that Liechtenstein is a predominantly Christian country, with Catholicism as the main religion. Expect Sundays to be relatively empty, and some stores not even open at all. Instead, if you don’t wish to attend Mass, take a look around. This is the time to go around without anyone bothering you. You might surprise yourself and find little treasures in this picturesque country.
Keep in mind that Liechtenstein is a predominantly Christian country, with Catholicism as the main religion. Expect Sundays to be relatively empty, and some stores not even open at all. Instead, if you don’t wish to attend Mass, take a look around. This is the time to go around without anyone bothering you. You might surprise yourself and find little treasures in this picturesque country.
CULTCHA VULTCHA: WHAT TO EXPECT
If you do end up going to church, whether you’re Catholic or
not, I’d advise you to adhere to the general
church rules. Do not wear shorts, tank tops, or mini-skirts to church.
Respect is the key word when it comes to visiting a place of worship. And don’t
forget—you’re a tourist, not a local. It’s better to be on the safe side and
not accidentally anger any strict Catholic attending church.
Although Liechtenstein is one of the few countries in the world with a 100% literacy rate, German is the main language, and some people may not speak English. It’s best to learn a little bit of German—the typical “hi, hello,” and “goodbye,” which is relatively easy. Maybe even bring an electronic translator if you think your German is just that terrible.
Liechtensteiners are also very proud of their independence. Be wary of offending them. Do not—under any circumstances—call them German. They are also fond of their royal family, who frequently attend public events. Like visiting any country in the world, be careful of what you say, you don’t want to accidentally insult someone!
Although Liechtenstein is one of the few countries in the world with a 100% literacy rate, German is the main language, and some people may not speak English. It’s best to learn a little bit of German—the typical “hi, hello,” and “goodbye,” which is relatively easy. Maybe even bring an electronic translator if you think your German is just that terrible.
Liechtensteiners are also very proud of their independence. Be wary of offending them. Do not—under any circumstances—call them German. They are also fond of their royal family, who frequently attend public events. Like visiting any country in the world, be careful of what you say, you don’t want to accidentally insult someone!
YOU HAVE TO GO TO...
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If you happen to be in Vaduz during the mild summer, be sure
to attend the Staatsfeiertag, Liechtenstein’s national day celebrations. It’s
basically a party for thousands of people, with a fair in the capital, a speech
and drinks on the front lawn of the royal residences, Vaduz Castle, and an
opportunity to meet the royal family! If it’s winter, head on Malbun,
Liechtenstein’s prime skiing area. Situated in the famed European Alps, it’s a
great place to ski and snowboard, without that many people bothering you. Best
of all, the snow can last all the way til the Spring!
The royal family owns a vineyard, Herawingert, which is open to visitors. The nearly ten acre property offers free wine tastings, and just about anyone can book a twenty-person taste test with the winemakers, and a tour of the grounds. If wine is not your forte, or you simply prefer art, Vaduz is home to the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein—read: Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts—full of modern and contemporary artwork. Although not the most stunning building, it has housed artwork by famous artists whose names I can’t pronounce.
One more thing: the sole McDonald’s in Liechtenstein serves beer. Beer.
The royal family owns a vineyard, Herawingert, which is open to visitors. The nearly ten acre property offers free wine tastings, and just about anyone can book a twenty-person taste test with the winemakers, and a tour of the grounds. If wine is not your forte, or you simply prefer art, Vaduz is home to the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein—read: Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts—full of modern and contemporary artwork. Although not the most stunning building, it has housed artwork by famous artists whose names I can’t pronounce.
One more thing: the sole McDonald’s in Liechtenstein serves beer. Beer.
UP FOR THE CHALLENGE!
Language, language, language! They speak German! Like I
said, make sure you know at least a little bit of the language. If not, you
could find yourself lost, stuck, having issues, or worst, in neighboring
Austria or Switzerland. But before anything else, getting to Liechtenstein is
the most difficult thing of all. The closest airport is Zurich, in Switzerland,
and your best bet it to take the train from there. However, after you see the
place, it’ll be well worth it.
Background Courtesy of: Biovit from German Wikipedia