02 Aug 2023
Switzerland is home to more than 2 million migrants belonging to different countries. A majority of foreign nationals belong to developed countries like Germany, France, Italy, etc. But, travelling to Switzerland and finding work there as a Gambian expatriate is no less than a dream come true.
A tiny population of Gambian migrants is also present in Switzerland. They have come to the country to earn a living and send money to Gambia to offer financial support back home.
Switzerland is a popular expatriate destination due to its robust economy and breathtaking landscape. It has attracted several tourists and expatriates over the years, which resulted in the booming tourism industry of the country.
But regardless of the purpose of travelling to Switzerland, one of the biggest challenges you face as a Gambian migrant is how to adjust to life in Switzerland.
Admit it.
No matter how much you have travelled to foreign countries, how much you have stayed there and for whatever purpose, the challenge of adapting to a new life in every country you travel to remains.
Do you, therefore, know how to adapt to life in Switzerland?
Well, this blog will walk you through life in Switzerland and how you can adjust to it as a Gambian migrant.
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that attract people to Switzerland.
Well, the reasons are many, but the prime ones, including the country’s economy, are detailed out below.
It is owing to the strong Swiss economy that the people of Gambia come here in search of better opportunities and earn a living which they support their families with through money transfer to Gambia.
Needless to say, Switzerland is famous for its amazing mountains, beautiful villages, and several lakes slithering across the country! These landscapes together make Switzerland the most preferred destination for migrants.
High-peak Alps and mountains make up about 62% of Switzerland’s territory.
Do you want to know about the top tourist attractions in Switzerland?
Click the link below to find out:
Top Tourist Attractions In Switzerland.
In the mountainous regions of Switzerland, the weather is arctic, while in the plains and villages, the weather is hot and sunny during the summers. The country has unpredictable weather as you may find the sun in one village and clouds and rain on the side of the same village!
Switzerland ranks 24th worldwide according to the Happy Planet Index. Its HPI score is 34.3 and ranks 24th out of 140. Life expectancy in Switzerland is 82.6 years, and it is ranked 4th out of 140.
The well-being score of Switzerland is 7.8 out of 10, and its rank is 1st out of 140.
Since several nationalities are present in Switzerland, the country’s culture is extremely diverse and multi-coloured. According to a survey by the Federal Statistical Office conducted in 2018, the Swiss population is generally tolerant.
These are some of the prime reasons that create an immense appeal for people from outside the country to visit Switzerland.
Now let’s see what you need to consider in Switzerland to adapt to life there.
Below are the points you must keep in mind while trying to adjust to life in Switzerland as a Gambian migrant to work and earn a living and support families back home as you send money to Gambia online from Switzerland.
The world’s 3rd most expensive city is Geneva! Everything, including dining outs, groceries, housing, etc., is a budget buster in Switzerland. Living away from the main towns in Switzerland may help you save a little.
Despite all the positives about the country listed above, the two genders have a huge pay gap. Women in the same jobs as men in Switzerland draw about 20% less salary than their male counterparts.
Furthermore, most high-powered positions in Switzerland are held by men, and the country has a long way to go to bridge the gap in this regard.
If you come from a country where all products and services are available 24/7, enabling you to get what you want and when then this practice in Switzerland might trouble you, at least in the beginning adjusting phase, if not in the longer run. Apart from corner stores and railway stations, most of the county remains closed.
One of the challenges in Switzerland is that people speak several languages.
Of course, communication in a country where only one language is largely spoken is easier than in a country like Switzerland, where multiple languages are spoken.
If you are born in Switzerland, you will find befriending people easily, but as a migrant, making friends in Switzerland is quite a challenge as the locals tend to keep to themselves. It will take a lot of effort to find and make a friend in Switzerland as you will have to go out of your way to do so.
These are some of the challenges that you will have to encounter while trying to adjust to your life in Switzerland as a Gambian migrant.
The fact that Switzerland is an expensive country for both expatriates and locals alike and that you hail from a country with a struggling economy like the Gambia, it becomes all the more important for you to be conscious in your online money transfer to Gambia and find a service like ACE Money Transfer that offers live exchange rates, speed, safety, 24/7 service in over 100 countries and much more in exchange for a low fee to allow you to make optimal gains in doing so.
FAQs
What makes Switzerland an attractive destination for Gambians looking to adapt to a new life abroad?
Switzerland's stunning natural landscapes, high standard of living, strong economy, and excellent healthcare and education systems make it an appealing destination for Gambians seeking a better quality of life. The country's multicultural society also welcomes diversity and promotes social integration, making it easier for Gambians to find a sense of belonging.
What are the main challenges Gambians may face while adapting to life in Switzerland?
Adapting to life in Switzerland can come with several challenges for Gambians. Language barriers may be a significant hurdle, as Swiss German, French, Italian, and Romansh are the official languages. The cost of living can also be higher than what Gambians are used to, which might require careful budgeting and financial planning. Additionally, cultural differences and the Swiss work ethic may require time to adjust to for a smooth transition.
How can Gambians overcome language barriers and effectively communicate in Switzerland?
While learning the local language(s) is beneficial, many Swiss citizens also speak English, which can serve as a helpful bridge initially. Gambians can attend language classes or use language learning apps to improve their proficiency in Swiss German, French, or other local languages. Engaging in social activities and interacting with locals will also provide ample opportunities to practice and improve language skills.
What resources are available to help Gambians integrate into Swiss society?
Switzerland offers various resources to support immigrants in their integration process. Integration programs, language courses, and cultural orientation workshops are often available at the local community centres. Gambians can also join social and cultural associations to connect with others from similar backgrounds and experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
How can Gambians overcome feelings of homesickness and maintain their cultural identity while living in Switzerland?
Homesickness is common when living abroad, but there are strategies to cope with it. Staying connected with family and friends back home through regular communication can help alleviate feelings of loneliness. Engaging in Gambian cultural events, preparing traditional dishes, and celebrating national holidays can also help maintain a strong cultural identity while embracing aspects of Swiss culture. Joining multicultural clubs and associations can provide a supportive network of individuals who understand the challenges of adapting to a new life abroad.
Resources
(GDP (current US$) - Switzerland | Data (worldbank.org)
(GDP per capita (current US$) - Switzerland | Data (worldbank.org)
