Published on
August 22, 2025
Switzerland has created a custom program to cater to the religious needs of Orthodox Jewish visitors to its scenic Alpine resorts in Davos and the Saas Valley and foster greater cultural exchange. The program aims to make it possible for Orthodox Jewish families in the community to vacation while observing their religious beliefs, facilitating a comfortable relationship between visitors and residents.
“Customized Service for Orthodox Jewish Travelers
Every year, Switzerland plays host to scores of Orthodox Jewish families from Israel, the UK, Belgium and the US, who are attracted by the scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures that Davos and the Saas Valley provide. Although these are beautiful locales, Orthodox Jewish travelers may encounter difficulties when trying to maintain their observance level. In an effort to change this, Swiss officials have partnered with Jewish community leaders to create the “Likrat Public” program.
The initiative takes place every summer from Tisha B’Av until the month of Elul, thus keeping the busy season. Its core function is to provide personalized services to Orthodox Jewish visitors, helping them navigate local customs, supplying practical needs and ensuring that their religious practices — including dietary restrictions and prayer times — are honored. This initiative also demonstrates Switzerland’s increasing dedication to being a welcoming host to visitors of all descriptions.
Specialized Support at Key Locations
“Likrat Public” brings Hebrew-speaking staff to key locations, like train stations, amusement parks, or popular tourist destinations, so that visitors will have someone they can turn to when in a pinch. These staff members help observant Jewish travelers with important needs such as answering questions about local customs, assisting with transportation schedules and giving direction at leisure sites.
In places like Davos, the staff at adventure parks makes sure there are safety instructions in Hebrew. They also make it so that religious articles, such as tzitzit, do not interfere with outdoor equipment. And, agents are on hand in stations, which is useful to Orthodox Jewish families who do not use smartphones on the Sabbath, for help with schedules.
For Orthodox Jewish families, this practical support means that unlike in many other destinations, they can spend their vacation without feeling bound by their religious beliefs while still being able to visit Switzerland’s wonderfully unspoilt countryside.
Facilitating Adjustment and Relationships with Locals
It has been very useful both for visitors and for the local people living there. As part of the campaign, local businesses should alter their services to cater for Orthodox Jewish holidaymakers.” That means serving kosher food and proving to be a more family-friendly place for those observing religious traditions.
The programme has also led to greater understanding of Jewish rituals and customs amongst neighbouring Swiss communities. the program also promotes the understanding and exchanges among different cultures and cooperation, and activates visitors’ understanding and respect to generate good-will feelings among themthem with the local people.
The project is run with the backing of Jewish community groups in Switzerland while local authorities and companies have all got on board, demonstrating Switzerland’s dedication to diversity and cultural awareness.
Sustained Educational Campaigning for Wider Impact
While the Likrat Public course takes place in summer, it is part of a teaching year that lasts all year round and is conducted throughout Switzerland. Advocates say the initiative aims to fight antisemitism by providing a broader understanding of Jewish life and customs, and to also educate the public about the cultural value and importance of religious traditions. This long-term educational tactic creates a more knowledgeable and respectful society in which religious differences are valued and celebrated.
The program benefits not only Orthodox Jewish tourists, but also helps establish permanent outlets of education for locals and guests. A year-round outreach effort to ensure the impact of the summer work informs public opinion and increases tolerance and acceptance.
Expand Your Inclusive Travel Horizons
Switzerland addressing the sensitivities of Orthodox Jewish visitors to Davos and the Saas Valley is part of an unfolding story in which it tries to be a little more inclusive, a tad more culturally sensitive. The project delivers practical tools adapted to the specific needs of Orthodox Jewish families and brings about cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. Switzerland is leading the way in promoting an accommodating approach to tourism and this is evident in the country’s commitment to ensuring religious practices are not only respected for but that individuals are provided with personalized support.
The campaign highlights Switzerland’s reputation as a progressive and accepting destination where visitors from all walks of life feel at home experiencing its breathtaking scenery and cultural activities. “In doing so, the country is helping to usher in a more inclusive, more diverse, and more respectful era of global travel.
