Switzerland is a top choice for those who want to move to Europe. As many as 2.1 million expats are thought to live in Switzerland, a much higher number than many expect.
Switzerland is popular for many reasons. One of these has to be the beauty and nature that surrounds it, something that is hard to replicate in other countries.
Is the idea of living somewhere breathtaking appealing to you? If so, you may want to consider a removal service to Switzerland. But before you pack your belongings, these are some of the top things you need to know.
1. There are four languages.
Whilst English is spoken by many people who are native to Switzerland, one of the main things that those relocating can find confusing is that across the country, at least four different languages are spoken.
These are French, German, Italian, and Romansh. It is also worth noting that those who speak German will be more likely to speak the Swiss form of German, which is not the same as the German spoken in Germany.
2. Education is high quality
If you are moving to Switzerland with your children or you are planning to have children in the future, then one thing to be aware of is that education in Switzerland is thought to be one of the best in Europe.
The standard of education across the ages in the country is well-known, and your children can be sent to either a public school or an international school. It really does depend on what you are looking for.
3. It can be expensive
Life in Switzerland can be expensive, including medical coverage and medication.
Many people who have chosen to live in Switzerland have found that the best way to ensure they get all the health coverage they need is to take out private medical insurance. Of course, this can help not only give you access to a high level of care but also help you budget medical costs.
4. The public transport network is always on time
One of the pros of living in Switzerland is the public transport. The Swiss people are known for making the very best watches, so it is probably not going to be a surprise to learn that, as a country, they are keen to ensure that everything runs like clockwork.
This includes the public transport network. Transport here is incredibly efficient, and you won’t often find lateness or cancelled journeys. That said, the price of travel can be high (after all, it is run to an incredibly high standard), which means that you may want to purchase a travel pass rather than buy one-off tickets.
5. Property is not always easy to find
One complaint many people have about living in Switzerland is that property is hard to find. This is particularly true if you are looking to move to one of the bigger, major cities.
If you look in the districts and smaller towns, you may find it somewhat easier to source a place to live. This can be made even easier by the fact that rental properties are often a better option than purchasing a home.
6. Sport is loved and skiing in particular
If you like to spend your free time inactive, Switzerland may not be the right choice for you. Most people who live here enjoy sports, which has helped to keep the rate of obesity down incredibly low across the population.
The Swiss enjoy a variety of sports, but given the country's stunning mountain landscapes, skiing is undoubtedly one of the most popular options.
That said, if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground rather than on a ski, you can also take part in hiking trails, cycling and swimming too.
7. There are a whole host of rules to learn
In Switzerland, it is felt that life is best lived by adhering to rules and regulations. While this may improve a wide variety of aspects of our lives, it can be quite hard to understand.
It's worth noting, every town and village throughout Switzerland has facilities to make recycling as easy as possible, and you are expected to try your very best to recycle, reuse, and properly dispose of a wealth of materials that you use daily.
8. The weather can change dramatically
When looking for somewhere new to live, many people want to consider places that allow them to enjoy year-round warm weather and sunshine. This is not the case if you choose to move to Switzerland.
While the country always looks beautiful, come rain or shine, it has to be said that it can get pretty cold mainly during the winter months. This is particularly true if you live in the more mountainous regions, where the temperature can drop to as little as -10°C.
That said, the summers are known to be warm, with temperatures up to as high as 28°C.
The takeaway
Now you know more about what life may be like if you choose to move to Switzerland, perhaps it is time to take the leap and make the move.
If you want to make sure that everything runs as smoothly as possible then why not speak to us here at Pinnacle Removals & Storage and let us help you to ensure that every part of the moving process is as smooth as can be?