Switzerland could be considered an overlooked treasure for an expat on the move. Landlocked in the heart of Europe, it retains its independence with a unique and distinct blend of culture and character. Although it doesn’t feature in the top-ten list of favourite destinations for UK expats to relocate to, it does have a good reputation with those expats who have discovered the benefits of Swiss life. They may just have discovered the secret to why Switzerland has the second highest life expectancy in the world.  [source; UN DESA]
Besides tax advantages, generous benefits packages and the shortest commuting times in Europe [Source: National Geographic], Switzerland is known for its healthy approach to the enduring problem of work/life balance at Executive level. Considered to be one of the world’s most powerful economies, it is home to some of the largest financial institutions (Credit Suisse, UBS, Swiss Re) in the global market. Although the financial sector is very strong in Switzerland, there is a high concentration of other global companies and organisation such as Nestlé, Rolex, Glencore, The World Health Organisation and FIFA, amongst others. This makes it a very attractive and buoyant employment market and a viable destination for top-level Executives looking for a change of lifestyle and scenery.
Although Switzerland is rightly associated with skiing and luxury winter resorts, there’s a lot more to the country than snow sports. The mountains and lakes are even more beautiful in the summer and offer an enviable outdoor lifestyle that can be enjoyed by the whole family, no matter what age or level of proficiency. Light summer evenings and weekends can be spent cycling on ‘bike only’ wooded Alpine trails, hiking in the flat valleys or more challenging mountain terrain, sailing and canoeing on the lakes, glacier walking, horse trekking and enjoying the delights of summer luges. The options are limitless for those with a desire to get out and make the most of what the country has to offer. To discover more of what Switzerland has offer click here.
 The less adventurous can enjoy more cultural pursuits – Switzerland is home to many important art collections. The Rosengart Collection in Luzern houses paintings from key artists of 19^th and 20^th century including Matisse, Montet, Cézanne and Picasso. The Kunstmuseum Basel is known for its unrivalled collection of Northern European and Flemish art. Basel also plays host to ArtBasel, an annual international Art Fair, read more on ArtBasel here. For those with musical interests, the internationally renowned Basel Symphony Orchestra perform regular programmes throughout the year.
Another highlight of the Swiss lifestyle is the high standard of the locally produced food and wine. There is more to Swiss cuisine than cheese and chocolate, although they naturally have museums dedicated to both, with Chocolat Frey and La Maison du Gruyère AOP. With a diverse geography and culture, comes diversity in gastronomic cuisine, with influences from French, German and Italian culture. The number of Michelin starred restaurants is climbing every year, with 2014 witnessing a record 110 restaurants being awarded a coveted place in the guide, with Schauenstein in Fürstenau and Hotel de Ville in Crissier being awarded three-stars once more. For a full list, click here.
Switzerland is undoubtedly an exceptional country to relocate to, providing a stunning backdrop to daily life and the opportunity to experience adventure, culture and cuisine on a grand scale. For more information on moving to Switzerland, click here
Information correct at time of publication.