Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
Really? My impression is that at least parts of Switzerland follow German norms and one would be expected to say hello and goodbye in small shops, etc. as well as thank you.
IME it's more in big east coast USA cities where one doesn't talk to strangers (except to thank taxi drivers, etc.).
I guess that may be because bus tickets are bought before getting on the bus and don't need to be validated (usually) so you don't interact with the driver. You don't need to board at the front either. At a shop, or if a ticket inspector does show up then a greeting and thank you will indeed be the norm.
On the other hand in London where everyone is required to validate their ticket as they board, I didn't hear many interactions.