Could you describe a bit more that "not that vibrant" factor of Zurich? Is it more of a quiet place?
I feel like one of the biggest pros of Swizzerland is its political system. The power is really much more in the hand of the people compared to representartive democracies. Swizzerland's historical neutral behavior in conflicts is also a big plus. And they are sort of independent from the rest of Europe.
That might sound like not being that important. But I've learnt that the political system actually translates a lot into daily life. Could be worth the higher costs, especially on long term.
yeah political stability is a good one. people in swiss vote on many things thorugh referendum but afaik they don't really vote their politician.
regarding zurich vibe; it's a bit like when you go to a mountain town, then you make it bigger because you add banks and corporate offices and universities around it
it's small and the above ones are pretty much the only industries there, so everyone is a nerd and stays at home or in the office or in the mountains
it can be great but definitely not comparable to nyc, london, paris, barcelona, warsaw, etc in terms of city thrill and things to do
also everything is ultra expensive so most people don't even go out that often
Sometimes I think I should settle in such a town, because it's more relaxed and less stress. But finally I know my life, which is sort of a pretty dynamic beast. So I finally think a town like that wouldn't work for me.
Though if you travel a lot, it might be a good base of course.
Currently I'm still stuck in Berlin somehow (though not the worst place to be stuck of course lol). But I hope things will change within the next months, or maybe next year. Then I might change my location or go perpetual traveler.
Poland is really suspiciously interesting to me. I tend to be attracted by upcoming regions. Not totally sure why, but maybe because of a lot of new possibilities. Which also brings a higher degree of freedom, also financially because they are usually cheaper places.
As a portuguese citizen living in Portugal and looking forward to relocate, let me warn you. Don't come to Portugal. Even if you are working remotely and you make a lot compared to the expenses you have, Portugal is becoming a shit show. From politics, to public services. Even the crime rate is going up like crazy.
Obviously, it's not like a third-world country. However, many Portuguese people have been feeling the same way—whether in Lisbon or even in other cities. Just last week, a friend of mine was robbed in broad daylight, in the middle of the street, by two individuals (gypsies).
So, given the other options we have in Europe (Poland, Spain, etc.), in my opinion, it makes little sense—aside from the weather—to move here. Politically, it's a chaotic situation; our parliament has been dissolved 3 times in 3 years. Not to mention the constant dramas.
There’s a reason why so much Portuguese talent leaves the country: the factors I mentioned, as well as disproportionate rent and property costs, inefficient and outdated public services (e.g: long waiting times and poor experiences with the healthcare system), and many other issues.
By all means, if you earn a lot remotely and love sunny weather, then yes, Portugal could be a great choice. But if you're moving here for a typical job, living in a disproportionately expensive apartment solely for the sunny weather, I would suggest reconsidering. It's not terrible—but I believe there are better options.
Could you describe a bit more that "not that vibrant" factor of Zurich? Is it more of a quiet place?
I feel like one of the biggest pros of Swizzerland is its political system. The power is really much more in the hand of the people compared to representartive democracies. Swizzerland's historical neutral behavior in conflicts is also a big plus. And they are sort of independent from the rest of Europe.
That might sound like not being that important. But I've learnt that the political system actually translates a lot into daily life. Could be worth the higher costs, especially on long term.
yeah political stability is a good one. people in swiss vote on many things thorugh referendum but afaik they don't really vote their politician.
regarding zurich vibe; it's a bit like when you go to a mountain town, then you make it bigger because you add banks and corporate offices and universities around it
it's small and the above ones are pretty much the only industries there, so everyone is a nerd and stays at home or in the office or in the mountains
it can be great but definitely not comparable to nyc, london, paris, barcelona, warsaw, etc in terms of city thrill and things to do
also everything is ultra expensive so most people don't even go out that often
Haha, nice read, thanks for that fun answer!
Sometimes I think I should settle in such a town, because it's more relaxed and less stress. But finally I know my life, which is sort of a pretty dynamic beast. So I finally think a town like that wouldn't work for me.
Though if you travel a lot, it might be a good base of course.
Currently I'm still stuck in Berlin somehow (though not the worst place to be stuck of course lol). But I hope things will change within the next months, or maybe next year. Then I might change my location or go perpetual traveler.
Poland is really suspiciously interesting to me. I tend to be attracted by upcoming regions. Not totally sure why, but maybe because of a lot of new possibilities. Which also brings a higher degree of freedom, also financially because they are usually cheaper places.
As a portuguese citizen living in Portugal and looking forward to relocate, let me warn you. Don't come to Portugal. Even if you are working remotely and you make a lot compared to the expenses you have, Portugal is becoming a shit show. From politics, to public services. Even the crime rate is going up like crazy.
tell us more :) I think crime rate statistics say that it's not increased in the last 10 years, but actually decreased https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2025-01-29/crime-down-in-lisbon/95199#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20PSP%2C%20general,6
Obviously, it's not like a third-world country. However, many Portuguese people have been feeling the same way—whether in Lisbon or even in other cities. Just last week, a friend of mine was robbed in broad daylight, in the middle of the street, by two individuals (gypsies).
So, given the other options we have in Europe (Poland, Spain, etc.), in my opinion, it makes little sense—aside from the weather—to move here. Politically, it's a chaotic situation; our parliament has been dissolved 3 times in 3 years. Not to mention the constant dramas.
There’s a reason why so much Portuguese talent leaves the country: the factors I mentioned, as well as disproportionate rent and property costs, inefficient and outdated public services (e.g: long waiting times and poor experiences with the healthcare system), and many other issues.
By all means, if you earn a lot remotely and love sunny weather, then yes, Portugal could be a great choice. But if you're moving here for a typical job, living in a disproportionately expensive apartment solely for the sunny weather, I would suggest reconsidering. It's not terrible—but I believe there are better options.
Of course, this is just my personal opinion.
yeah of course it only makes sense in case of remote work. that's the assumption i started with in the video