Zurich, Switzerland - Bara
Where are you originally from?
I am originally from Prague, Czech Republic. But have since then lived in the Netherlands, Germany, US, UK and now Switzerland.
What is your profession?
I am a head of marketing at a startup.
How long have you lived in Zurich?
I have lived in Zurich since September 2015.
Why did you move to Zurich?
I moved primarily because of my job. Until then, I have never visited Zurich, so it was a bit of a bold choice.
What is particular about the Swiss culture?
It is a very private culture that focuses on understatement and the people are generally very reserved. It is not a virtue to be “flashy” here. To show off or to be “loud”. This is also why this country is so popular for celebrities to come visit. It would be absolutely inappropriate to approach a celebrity in the street. It happened to me to sit in a crowded cafe with Naomi Campbell sitting right behind us. My friend, who was visiting, was shocked that nobody seemed to even look her way. This has of course its upside - that privacy is respected. Showing off with material things is also looked at a bit strangely, because it is a very wealthy city (Zurich), so showing off feels a bit strange. On the other hand, it is also a way more difficult culture to meet people spontaneously, like you may in the US, for example. Approaching someone in the street or at a bar will feel odd and many times not necessarily welcome. This does not mean the Swiss are not approachable. It is just way harder to break into the local scene because people often have friends that they know since kindergarden and don’t necessarily feel the urge to meet someone new. This is why the expat scene feels more buzzy, because people very proactively mingle and are happy to get to know people from everywhere else.
What is your favorite thing about Zurich?
The lake. By far the most beautiful thing about Zurich is the lake, which has clear blue waters and in summer one feels like in the south of France, if the weather matches ;).
What would you recommend to people who are thinking of moving to Zurich?
Be prepared that at first you will be terrified by the prices of everything you buy. From pizza to rent to everything else. You will eventually get used to it because the salaries are also way higher, but as a foreigner it never really goes away. And be prepared that at first it may feel quite tough to socialize - that’s why it is good to know where the expat spots are, or where English-speaking events happen, as you are likely to find more people who are open to mingle. Remember, consistency is key - sign up for a gym, go to same cafe’s…you will realize people often go everyday to the same places and this may be a good way to get to know someone.
What are some things that in your opinion people do not realize about Zurich?
How beautiful it is in summer! Truly, if the weather is good, you do not need to leave for holiday in this time of the year. The amount of parties (pre-covid and pre-kids), festivals, the lake life..there’s enough to keep you busy daily during beautiful summer days. Also, Zurich is a great hub (when travel is possible). It is not cheap to fly from here, but you can fly anywhere due to Swiss airlines being located here and also with regards to neighboring countries - with Italy and France nearby, there’s always beautiful places to go to.
What has been the hardest part about moving to Zurich?
I would not dramatize it but it does get taking used to the Swiss culture. It is so different from the neighboring ones. You have to be flexible and figure out in which circles you want to hang out as it can feel quite close minded sometimes, especially if you move here from a bigger city like I did (London).
What is your favorite memory of living in Zurich?
Going for a swim in the lake on a hot summer morning around 5 am, watching the sunrise with the view to the mountains.
Any places / activities you would recommend to people planning on visiting Zurich/Switzerland?
Zurich is definitely worth visiting in summertime, when covid no longer holds- in time of festivals (Zurich Open Air Festival) or during Street Parade time, that is if you like to party. Otherwise, there’s plenty of nature in Switzerland, like going to Mount Pilatus in Luzern, which is very conveniently close to Zurich or having a drive to the mountains (Davos, St. Moritz, Lenzerheide..) and just enjoy the nature. If you re a skier, then you should definitely come in winter and enjoy the alps.
Can people follow you on social media?
Yes @Mindandmonkey