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|  | LIECHTENSTEIN COUNTRY SNAPSHOT AND INTERESTING FACTS | Liechtenstein shares borders with Austria and Switzerland and lies between the upper reaches of the Rhine Valley and the Austrian Alps. The principality is noted for its fine vineyards. The Principality of Liechtenstein was established within the Holy Roman Empire in 1719; it became a sovereign state in 1806. Until the end of World War I, it was closely tied to Austria, but the economic devastation caused by that conflict forced Liechtenstein to enter into a customs and monetary union with Switzerland. Since World War II (in which Liechtenstein remained neutral), the country's low taxes have spurred outstanding economic growth. Shortcomings in banking regulatory oversight have resulted in concerns about the use of the financial institutions for money laundering. Liechtenstein has, however, implemented new anti-money-laundering legislation. Despite its small size and limited natural resources, Liechtenstein has developed into a prosperous, highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy with a vital financial service sector and living standards on a par with its large European neighbors. The Liechtenstein economy is widely diversified with a large number of small businesses. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 20% - and easy incorporation rules have induced many holding or so-called letter box companies to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein, providing 30% of state revenues. The country participates in a customs union with Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency. It imports more than 90% of its energy requirements. Liechtenstein has been a member of the European Economic Area (an organization serving as a bridge between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and the EU) since May 1995. The government is working to harmonize its economic policies with those of an integrated Europe. | Open here a detailed map in a new window. Map Server Travel-Island.com. |  |
| RESORTS AND EXCURSIONS | The Principality of Liechtenstein covers both lowlands - including part of the fertile Rhine Valley and the steep western slope of the Three Sisters massif - and mountains. The latter are in the eastern part of the country and are accessible through three high valleys, the best known being that of Malbun, Liechtenstein's premier ski resort (see below).
In summer, hikers and ramblers may wish to explore Liechtenstein's vineyards, forests and nature reserves. The principality's mountains attract climbers of all abilities. For the less energetic, there are several tourist sites of interest.
Vaduz
In the capital, Vaduz, the Postage Stamp Museum (Postal Museum), the National Library, the Ski Museum, and the National Museum (currently closed for renovation) are worth visiting. The new Liechtenstein Art Museum, open in November 2000 and housed in a specially designed building, contains the treasures of the Prince's collection, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck, as well as modern art from the former Liechtenstein State Art Collection. Wine tasting groups of ten or more persons are welcome in the Prince's Wine Cellars in Vaduz, subject to reservation (tel: 232 1018; fax: 233 1145; e-mail: office@hofkellerei.li; website: hofkellerei.li). A 'City Train' will take visitors around the sights on a 30-minute tour.
Elsewhere
There are local museums in Triesenberg (the Walser Museum) and Schellenberg. Schaan is noted for its theatre, its Roman excavations, the St Maria zum Trost Chapel and DoMus - Museum and Gallery of the Community of Schaan. Also of interest are the Gutenberg Castle and St Peter's Chapel at Balzers; the St Mamerten and Maria Chapels and the old part of the village in Triesen; the Chapel of St Joseph in Planken; the Roman excavations at Eschen-Nendeln; the parish churches in Mauren, Bendern and Ruggell; and the ruins of the upper and lower Burg Schellenberg.
Resorts
The winter sports area is concentrated around Malbun at 1600m (5250ft) and Steg at 1300m (4250ft). At Malbun there are two chair lifts, four ski lifts and a natural ice rink. Steg has become famous for its popular cross-country skiing loop with three distances - 4km (2.5 miles), 12km (7 miles), 12.5km (7-8 miles) - which is also equipped for use at night. Steg also has a ski lift and sledge-run. | | PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATION Furthermore, in order to get into many countries on the stay abroad you will require a visa of some type, even if you are just visiting. This is usually an insert, stamp or sticker which is placed in your passport and the duration of its validity varies from place to place. If you do intend to work or study in the country to which you are traveling, however, you should organize your visa even further in advance as this can take longer to process.
As well as your passport you should ensure that you have at least one other form of identification with you. This may be a driver’s license, birth certificate or any other form of ID which is acceptable worldwide. As with passports, bring at least two copies of all forms of identification in case of loss or theft.
Help to Passport and Visa Application Forms. How to find the right one(s)?
A passport is issued to you by your home country as proof of citizenship. Visas are stamped into your passport to allow you entry into other countries. Although there are exceptions, you are usually required to display your passport when entering or leaving a country. Once you arrive at your destination, carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.
A visa is an endorsement or stamp entered into your passport by a foreign government. It allows you to enter that country for a specific reason and period of time. Start applying for visas as soon as your passport is available so that all your documentation is completed well before your departure date. To receive a visa you need to send your passport to an embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit. Most countries have embassies and consulates worldwide, and travel agents can usually tell you where the nearest ones are located. Keep in mind that your passport may be tied up for days or weeks until the paperwork is done, so plan accordingly. In addition, some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before they will issue you a visa. The amount of time spent mailing your passport to the various agencies involved can really add up if you are visiting several countries. Plan ahead if possible. If you only have a few weeks to prepare, a commercial visa service can often speed up the process. |
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