Switzerland might be known for its chocolates, which many people around the world give their loved ones on Valentine's Day, but it is the least romantic country I know. The Swiss tend to be serious, shy, distant and they hate to stand out. None of those qualities help with romance.

I have lived and worked in Switzerland for 25 years so far and every year I give Valentine's Day lessons to my students. The Swiss know what Valentine's Day is thanks to the marketing of many chocolate and flower companies, but it is not a Swiss tradition. 

Being an American, I am very familiar with Valentine's Day habits, which I grew up with. We gave Valentine's Day cards to all of our classmates in grade school and as I grew older my American boyfriends would buy me a romantic gift or take me to a candlelit dinner.

When I teach English in other countries, I try to introduce my students to American culture including Valentine's Day. Usually we discuss the facts first, then we might play a game, and finally we give each other some free Valentine's Day gifts (handmade cards, virtual gifts, etc.).  Most of my students enjoy those lessons and learning about our culture, which is more interesting than just learning grammar.

Surprisingly, the Swiss seem to be slowly warming up to Valentine's Day, as you can see in the photo in this column. Our local buses are decorated on Valentine's Day, which makes me smile, of course!

Will Valentine's Day make the shy Swiss more open and willing to talk about their feelings? I don't think so. But it's nice to see a country slowly embrace (= to accept) a tradition that they used to think was only commercial (= about making money for companies).

If you are interested in talking about culture, traditions, holidays, or even specifically Valentine's Day, please book a lesson with me today!