When I moved to Europe from Texas just over a year ago, I felt like I was living out a dream but also facing a lot of uncertainty at the same time. My Swiss boyfriend (now husband) grew up in Switzerland, but I had only ever visited the country with him. We knew that the job offer he received to move back to Switzerland from Texas would be the best move for us so we didn’t really question the opportunity. We sold our cars in Texas, packed two suitcases each, and got on a flight about a month later. As an American, I was able to stay for 90 days at a time (out of 180 days) but that was only until I received my visa about 10 months later. Sometimes it sounds like a fairy tale, but the visa process was a challenge and it’s been quite the adventure overall. I wanted to share my story and some tips and advice based on my experiences that can help you if you have ever considered your own move abroad.
The Visa Process
One of the biggest challenges I faced when moving abroad to Switzerland was the visa process. The process was time-consuming and required a lot of documentation, financial information, and more.
It’s important to do research on the visa process in the country you’re moving to and to start the process as early as possible. It’s also important to be prepared for the cost as the visa application process can be expensive.
The Culture Shock
At first, everything was different but exciting and overwhelming at the same time. The pace of life was different, the customs were different, and even the food was different. I remember being so shocked by how early the stores closed and the lack of fast food options that exist. I was used to the “24/7” lifestyle of Texas, where everything is always open. But in Europe, it’s normal for stores to close at 6pm and in Switzerland, just about everything is closed on Sundays.
The social norms are different and to be honest, some are quite quirky. For example, it’s forbidden to vacuum and recycle on Sundays? Weird.
But, as time passed, I began to appreciate the differences. I realized that the slower pace of life was refreshing, and that the customs were charming. And the food, oh my gosh, the food was amazing! I fell in love with the freshness of food, the delicious cheeses, and don’t even get me started on the selection of top tier chocolate.
Exploring the Differences in Daily Life
One of the biggest differences for me in Zürich is the cost of living. In case you didn’t already know, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the entire world. And you feel that even more if you come from Texas, a place known for the affordability and lower cost of living.
Another thing that is probably my favorite is the public transportation. In Texas, we drive everywhere, but in Europe, public transportation is the norm. I was initially intimidated by the trains and buses, but once I got the hang of it, I found it to be a convenient and efficient way to get around.
Learning a New Language after Moving Abroad
Switzerland has 4 official languages! I don’t speak any other languages besides English and the wee bit of Spanish I learned in grade school growing up. My husband, Colin, speaks German, Swiss German, and English fluently, but it’s still a challenge navigating daily life on my own without some awkward encounters. Thankfully, Colin is a great translator and has helped me with words and phrases in addition to my daily Duolingo lessons.
Conclusion
Moving to Europe was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve learned so much about a new culture, way of life, and I’ve grown as a person. It hasn’t always been easy, but the challenges have been worth it.
If you’re considering moving abroad, my advice is to embrace the challenges and keep an open mind. The opportunities for growth and self-discovery are endless, and you never know what amazing experiences and connections you’ll make.
