Moving to Zurich

Moving to Zurich will be a great surprise to most expats, who tend to identify this banking capital with its conservative commercial image. While it may be home to the world’s fourth-largest stock exchange, and though it certainly is the country’s financial engine, there’s much more to this city besides commerce.

Ranked as the one of the world’s top cities in which to live (according to the 2010 Mercer Quality of Living Survey), Zurich's infrastructure and urban systems are efficient and incredibly well maintained. What's more, the metropolitan area is clean and safe, with a strong economy and a rich culture (albeit one that might take some getting used to).

Before expats can even start to worry about adapting, however, they'll need to find housing, an endeavour that's likely to be challenging given the city's famed accommodation shortage. Expect to pay a lot for a little: the cost of living in the city is high, and accommodation in Zurich is certainly no exception.

Initially, expats may find that they struggle with the language barrier. Swiss German is the predominant spoken and written language; however, English is widely understood and used. Picking up a few introductory phrases in Swiss German can make a big difference to your first few interactions in the city, as locals can be reluctant to immediately engage with you in English.

Zurich's medieval Old Town is now a rich backdrop for contemporary ventures, including fashion stores, bookshops, wine and pastry shops, bars, restaurants and clubs. Having long influenced the arts and culture, Zurich is a city that pays homage to museums, galleries and theatres.

The Limmat River runs through the city, creating wonderful quays along which expats can stroll and enjoy the sights of the sail boats and motorboats whisking their passengers along.

Overall, if expats can negotiate a good salary for themselves, they can be free to enjoy all that Zurich has to offer.