Many rooms overlook a valley, while a few others overlook a road. The woman that runs the hostel does speak English. You probably know that Switzerland is a very expensive place to visit. Unless you are staying at a really nice hotel, most lower end hotels have a couple of shared washrooms per floor. Showers usually cost extra.
Food is very expensive.
I am from Canada and the cost of a loaf of bread was a shocking SFR 3.10. Four bananas cost SFR 2.05 and 6 pack of pop cost SFR 5.10. Transportation is reasonably priced if you have a Swiss Card, Pass or Eurail Card. Clothing is expensive. A movie costs SFR 13.