How to Celebrate Christmas in Switzerland

For those who are looking to travel to the fantastically beautiful country nestled high in the pristine Alps--yes, we're talking about Switzerland--consider scheduling your trip over the holidays. The Swiss celebrate Christmas their own way--and it's worth your time to learn how it's done.

Instructions

1. A few days before Christmas day, dress your best and visit your friends and acquaintances to offer them gifts and presents.

2. Learn how to sing carols in French, German and Italian. In Switzerland, you'll hear Christmas songs being sung in each of these languages.

3. Exchange gifts. Ask your neighbors when this is done; in some parts of Switzerland, gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve, while in others, ritual is observed on Christmas morning.

4. Attend Christmas mass. You'll be summoned there by the loud ringing of church bells, audible over large distances. Mass lasts about an hour.

5. After mass, get together with friends, family and acquaintances and eat ringli (similar to doughnuts) with steaming hot chocolate.