Chapter Eight: Liechtenstein

One of the world’s tiniest countries, Liechtenstein lies in the fertile valley of the Rhine River. Its 60-square-mile area is completely landlocked by Austria and Switzerland. Like its Alpine neighbors, the country enjoys picturesque landscapes of glacial lakes and streams, flowering meadows, and snow-peaked mountains covered with shady, evergreen forests. Liechtenstein’s fairy tale-like beauty has inspired many legends over the centuries. One tale tells of the little wild men, or Wildmannli, who come out of their mountain caves each night to tidy up for sleeping villagers. Liechtenstein does not have an army and, since 1866, has remained neutral in times of war. An independent state, the country is a constitutional monarchy ruled by hereditary princes.

What Time Is It in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein is six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. When it’s 10 a.m. in Washington, D.C., then it’s 4 p.m. in Liechtenstein.

People

Although Liechtenstein has been permanently inhabited for about 5,000 years, most of the country’s population are descendants from a Germanic tribe that occupied the country in the fifth century a.d. Until the first half of the twentieth century, almost the entire population farmed for a living. Many Liechtensteiners follow the old ways and raise crops or herd cows, but about half work in factories and make a wide variety of products, from computer components to sausage skins to dentures. Over 50 percent of the country’s workforce are foreigners who commute each day from Austria and Switzerland. The people of Liechtenstein take advantage of their beautiful surroundings. Favorite outdoor activities include bicycling, hiking, and skiing.

Doing Business in Liechtenstein?

If you’re planning to do business in Liechtenstein, then here are a few tips you might want to know.

Greetings

• It’s customary to shake hands upon meeting. Always remove gloves first before extending your hand.
• When addressing someone, use a title with a last name. First names are usually reserved for young people and the locals.

Gestures

• It’s inappropriate to talk with hands in your pocket.
• Pointing at your head with the index finger is considered an insult.
• When dining, it’s impolite to leave food on your plate. Asking for seconds compliments the host.

Protocol

• Punctuality is important.
• Dress neatly and well. European fashions will probably make the best impression.
• Be warm but direct. Never give information that can’t be backed up factually.

Want to know more about Liechtenstein?

Visit www. Britannica.com.