Switzerland is a beautiful country, with some of the most magnificent scenery on earth. It’s also one of the most expensive countries in Europe to live in. It has a population of 8 million and takes up 4% of the Earth's land area. Due to its high elevation, it claims more hours of sunshine than nearly any other country. Switzerland’s national animal is the cow, but its national dish is fondue. 
 
I have been living in Switzerland for over two years now so let me tell you more about the expat life in Switzerland. I arrived in 2020 when the borders opened, and people were able to travel again, after pandemic. I was charmed with magnificent views, Swiss culture, food, welcoming atmosphere, and amazing weather. At that time, I was jobless and was waiting for the resort in Maldives to reopen and come back to paradise to my previous job, but I didn’t and stayed in Switzerland instead. 

* (I will write another time about the administration procedure of moving to Switzerland)*

 
Let’s check some pros and cons of an expat life in Switzerland: 

+ High quality of life

Top reason why I decided to stay. Swiss people live longer, healthier, and happier lives than people in any other country. High salaries, exceptional healthcare, high quality of services, clean air, clean water, high quality of the food and many more makes quality of life above standard.
+ Low inflation rate
The inflation is skyrocketing around the world and Switzerland has managed to keep it around 3.5% in August, 2022.
+ Public transport/ infrastructure
The public transport is ON TIME and it’s very easy to travel from point A to B. Everything is well informed and traveling with train is sometimes faster than with car.
+ Low criminal rate
Switzerland is the country with lowest criminal rate and is considered one of the safest places to live in 2022, however you should lock your bicycle. 
+ Highest education system in Europe
Public education is free in Switzerland and Swiss are highly educated people. I also find Swiss people very creative.
+ Breath-taking nature
There's so much to do here whether it be hiking, going up mountains or enjoying the sun shining on your face from above. You will never get bored.
+ Swiss food
It’s a raclette time! I do enjoy Swiss food, melting cheese with grilled vegetables. Yummy! I wrote another blog about What to eat in Switzerland.
+ Punctuality/ Being organized
Tip for an expat, don’t be late, even 5 minutes! I find it very cool, but on the other hand also stressful, because punctuality is not my strong side. Hoops! People tend to be very well organized and have their holidays book a year ahead. I know families, which know the plan for 2024. I feel like a black sheep as I tend to do everything last minute, but it's never late to learn a new skill.
+ Swiss people
People in general are very friendly, helpful and willing to help foreigners to settle into the country. I still feel amazed, how many people helped me and made me feel comfortable in the beginning. 
 

- High living cost
I cry every month when I pay my healthcare. I opted for the highest franchise (higher the franchise, the less you pay per month, but more you pay for the medical services, treatments, etc). You think twice before you visit the doctor.
It’s also recommended to make voluntary monthly payment into your pension (pillar 3).
-  Real estates
Properties in Switzerland are among the most expensive in the world. It’s popular to live in rent. You need a well paid job or huge amount of savings to afford a house.
- Work/Life balance
You work a lot. The services are expensive, therefore the quality is required, even if it means working overtime. On the other hand, you are well rewarded, however it’s important to find time for yourself and your hobbies to prevent burnout, which is currently raising issue.
- Shopping
I don’t find the shopping in Switzerland satisfying. The customs make the same piece of cloth more expensive than in other European country. I rather go to Germany or France to enjoy the better prices and wider selection.
I also pay the customs clearance fee for an online shopping from the other countries, it’s around 11.50 CHF and higher for goods worth of 100 CHF.
- Language barrier
I consistently learn German, however it’s very different to Schwizerdütsch, which discourage me from further German education. Don’t get me wrong people will speak with you German or English, but if there is another Swiss around, they tend to switch to Schwizerdütsch quite quickly. 

I can tell you that Switzerland is a beautiful country to live in, having many benefits for the residents, like strong economic, high quality of life, magnificient nature, safe environment and many more. The high living cost is something you need to accept and make a most of all the advantages this country provide. If you get an opportunity, don’t hesitate, and start a new journey in Switzerland. You will feel quickly at home.