Welcome to our VOX Cultural Digest, Issue N. 34!
Happy New Year! We’re excited to support you in achieving your goals this year. Committed to language and cultural exchange, VOX-Sprachschule brings you events that merge linguistic learning with the rich culture of the country.
Make language enhancement a part of your New Year’s resolutions! Begin the year with our 15-minute WhatsApp lessons, a perfect way to practice and learn on the move.
January is more than just a month; it’s your chance for a fresh start.
VOX Quiz:
🗣️This Sino-Tibetan language is tonal and uses both simplified and traditional characters. Identify the language.
a) Mandarin Chinese
b) Cantonese
c) Japanese
d) Korean
🇨🇭Where in Switzerland were scenes for James Bond movies filmed?
a) Piz Gloria, Schilthorn
b) Swiss Chocolate Factory, Interlaken
c) Lake Geneva, Montreux
d) Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
e) Matterhorn, Zermatt
(Keep scrolling for the answer)
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Winter Magic
In winter, Panorama Terrasse Uetliberg is a popular place for Zurich locals and visitors alike. In the evening, it turns into a cosy winter wonderland with hot soup, sausage or raclette and mulled wine. The terrace offers a great view over Zurich to enjoy the lights of the city below at night.
WHEN > until 28 February
WHERE > Uetliberg
Dolder Ice Skating
Enjoy an unforgettable day on one of the largest open-air ice-skating rinks in Europe. Bring your own skates or rent them at the entrance (be there early in order to avoid long waiting times!), and glide to the rhythm of the music!
WHERE > Dolder Sports
SPECIAL EXHIBITION
Imagine Picasso
Step into the captivating world of Pablo Picasso on the 50th anniversary of his passing. Visitors can explore Picasso’s creative universe as the paintings are projected onto a stunning setting designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti, offering a unique and unprecedented journey through the artist’s work.
WHEN > from15 November
WHERE > Lichthalle MAAG
PhotoSchweiz
Visit Switzerland’s largest photography exhibition, PhotoSchweiz, to see a curated selection of works from renowned and upcoming photographers. This exhibition is a must for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
WHEN > until 16 January
WHERE > Halle 550, Zurich
SHOWS
The Lion King
If you’re a fan of Disney’s The Lion King and find yourself in Switzerland, you’re in for a treat! The award-winning musical is making its return to the country. Don’t miss out on the magic of The Lion King in its English-language original production!
WHEN > until 10 March
WHERE > Zurich
Sweeney Todd
Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece, “Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” awaits at the Zurich Opera House. This engaging production offers a fresh perspective on the classic musical genre, blending suspenseful storytelling with operatic flair.
WHEN > 7 and 13 January
WHERE > Zurich
Pixel Zoo
Dive into the fascinating world of oceans and marine life at Pixel Zoo in Zurich, where learning becomes a playful and environmentally friendly adventure. This unique event invites visitors to explore the wonders of the deep blue in a manner that not only educates but also promotes a sustainable appreciation for our oceans.
WHERE > Zürich Wollishofen
Genesis
The Genesis light show is a unique and captivating experience that uses light and sound to narrate the story of creation. It takes place in Zurich’s beautiful Kirche auf der Egg, a church with stunning architecture that serves as the ideal setting for this performance.
WHEN > until 7 January
WHERE > Lichthalle MAAG
WELLNESS
Relaxing Saunas
As the temperatures drop many people feel the need to hibernate. But there’s no need to stay cooped up inside all winter long! Why not take advantage of this time of year to recharge with a visit to the sauna? If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out Sauna am See Uster on the shores of the Greifensee.
WHERE > Zurich/Uster
FESTIVALS
Lilu Light Festival
Lilu Light Festival turns Lucerne into a glowing hub of creativity. Artists worldwide come together to display the mesmerizing and multifaceted world of light art. Stroll through illuminated streets, discover breathtaking light installations, and immerse yourself in a spectacular light and sound show.
WHEN > until 21 January
WHERE > Lucerne
Zürcher Philosophie Festival
Zürcher Philosophie Festival offers a range of philosophical topics, from the ethical challenges posed by robotics to explorations of time. Partake in unique experiences such as a lively Philosophy Slam.
WHEN > 25-27 January
WHERE > Mühle Tiefenbrunnen
MUSEUMS
KIMONO
The exhibition “Kimono” explores the history and cultural significance of the traditional Japanese garment and offers guided tours in both English and German. Through various exhibits, the museum delves into the kimono’s evolution and its role as a symbol of Japanese art and society.
WHEN > until 7 January 2024
WHERE > Museum Rietberg
Tropenhaus
Explore the Tropenhaus in Frutigen, Switzerland, a hidden tropical paradise amidst the Alps. It blends nature and sustainable technology, offering a unique escape to exotic landscapes within the Swiss mountains—an unforgettable experience for the curious traveller seeking a December adventure.
WHERE > Frutigen
LATE
Discover the Landesmuseum’s treasures in a special evening setting. Ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, LATE allows you to explore exhibitions at a leisurely pace.
WHEN > 25 January
WHERE > Landesmuseum
Archaeological window
Experience the thrill of being an Indiana Jones and unlock the secrets of Zurich’s archaeological history. Delve into the hidden past, explore ancient civilizations, and unearth fascinating mysteries that lie beneath the modern cityscape.
WHERE > Zurich
SCIENCE
Experience the Zurich night sky
The guided tours in German at the observatory beneath its imposing oak dome, provide visitors with an understanding of astronomy and reveal fascinating details about the cosmos.
WHEN > selected dates each month
WHERE > Sternwarte Urania, Zürich
CITY TOURS
Cityillusion
Zurich is a city with a rich history and culture that can now be explored in an entirely new and exciting way. Take a VR city tour and explore the different places in Zurich while meeting famous historical figures such as Albert Einstein and Katharina von Zimmern. Gain insight into the lives of several influential historical figures and discover the city in an interactive way.
WHERE > Zurich
VOX Quiz Answers:
- a) Mandarin Chinese uses tones and both simplified and traditional characters.
- a) Piz Gloria, Schilthorn: Seen in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”
c) Lake Geneva, Montreux: Featured in “GoldenEye.”
d) Jungfraujoch: Also in “GoldenEye.”
Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of the VOX Cultural Digest.
Have fun exploring and learning new languages!