An Expat Talks about Moving to Zug, Switzerland

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Zug

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Should have brought:

1. Standing lamps - there were no light fittings in the apartmnet when we moved in

2. Books - English books are expensive here

3. More favourite toiletries - took me a while to find ones I like here.

Could have left:

1. Back-dated magazines!

2. Plants

3. Most of the photo albums - it is SO beautiful here you'll take photos everytime you go out!!!

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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Get help from a good relocation agent before you come!!!! Ask as many questions as you can think of (no question is too small or silly), try to learn a bit of German (although the Swiss love to practice their english), get involved in a local networking club even if you are not a club-type person - there is a Women's Club in Zug (www.ziwc.ch) which is OK - many different types of activities and people and you can pick and choose.

Let your agent advise you on areas - but try to find something not too far away from the school your child will go to - helps the child as well as increasing the chances for car pools!!!

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

4 1/2 room (3 bedrooms) apartment. Very typical. Costs SFr. 2,500 per month plus utilities of SFr. 300.- and garage SFr. 150.-

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Had help from an excellent relocation agent, Le Concierge. We found her and her company completely by chance (through the school magazine) and would highly, highly recommend not only her but this way of doing things - she thought of everything and asked a lot of excellent questions about us which made us re-evaluate our attitudes to moving in part.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

On the whole housing cost is higher but we are paying lower taxes and my husband's salary is better ehre than in the UK so overall we now have a slightly higher standard of living.