> in an antiquated vending machine for buying train tickets (has any one of those EVER impressed you?)

I don't know if you've ever used one but the Swiss ticket machines are nowhere near antiquated. They are all touch screen devices that support contactless payements as well as all the usual payment options and then some (reka cheques?), and offer a (relatively) good UI in at least 4 different languages.

I'd add that the rest of their IT-enabled infrastructure is really good - apps that let you buy electronic tickets for all major mobile plaforms, RFID-enabled travel passes, and up-to-the minute train live tracking.

Compared to every other country I've travelled to they are really advanced. Granted, I've not been to Japan or Singapore, but I've otherwise travelled quite a lot.

Source: Am Swiss.