An Expat Talks about Living in Zurich, Switzerland
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Zurich
How long have you lived there?
5 years
What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?
Take the "Living in Zurich" mini course offered in October (every Friday for 6 weeks) by the American Women's Club of Zurich.
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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.
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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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.
The city of Zurich is multicultural and tolerant but many of the Swiss are not; there are many, many rules (like no gardening on Sundays)that can frustrate; a recent poll showed the Swiss have the highest negative opinion of America; anti-Semitism is high and the Albanians are the latest to be despised; sexism, especially in the business world, is much higher than in America.
What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?
Banking and insurance jobs abound; teaching English is possible but not that profitable; women have a tough time finding jobs (better to have one before you come); children in the public schools come home for lunch every day making it impossible for mom to work (private schools run over 20,000CHF); most jobs require knowledge of high German.
In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?
The Swiss generally do not make friends at work.
William Russell
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Zurich
- Pros & Cons of Living in Zurich
- Driving in Zurich
- Cost of Living in Zurich
- Health Care in Zurich
- Discover the Best of Zurich
- 5 Tips for Living in Zurich, Switzerland
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- Best Places to Ski in Switzerland
- What It's Like Living in Zurich
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Switzerland