| An Irish expat tells us a bit of what it's like living in Montreux, Switzerland, an area that is popular with tourists. He also gives some practical tips on what to expect and advises anyone planning to move to Switzerland to do their homework first. |
 Adjlynch |
-Where were you born?
Dublin, Ireland
-In which country and city are you living now?
Montreux, Switzerland
-Are you living alone or with your family?
Alone, for the moment.
-How long have you been living in Switzerland
20 Months
-What is your age?48
-When did you come up with the idea of living in Switzerland?
My company asked me to work here.
-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?
No - being an EU citizen
-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?
No - again I was advised by my employer.
-How do you make your living in Switzerland? Do you have any type of income generated?
I was offered a job by my company in Switzerland, so I had no difficulties.
-Do you speak the local language and do you think it's important to speak the local language?
My French is very average, but I get by. But as Montreux is a very touristic conscious region, many people speak English. Indeed, sometimes I think English is the first language. It is important to observe local customs, and perhaps read up on them before you arrive. Being a Western European myself, things are not very different, but there are always some subtle differences.
-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
I think every expat misses home to some degree. My personal favorite activity is just walking, but skiing in winter and lazing by the lake in summer are local favorites.
-Do you have other plans for the future?
No real plans for the moment - but one never knows.
-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
I am renting for now, my 2-bedroom apparment costs 1550 Swiss Francs per month. That is quite expensive, but the view is awesome.
-What is the cost of living in Switzerland?The cost of living is very high, so you have to be sure that your salary reflects this. It is a good idea to hire an accountant to help you with your tax returns, as the process is quite complicated.
-What do you think about the Swiss?As in most countries, it varies. Switzerland has a very high percentage (20%) of foreigners living here, and some local people think this may be excessive.
-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Switzerland?
Positives - clean, beautiful scenery and at the heart of Europe.
Negatives - expensive and rather bureaucratic.
-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Switzerland?
Just do your homework before you decide to move here.
-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Switzerland?
