Alexandra Brodin - Expat in Geneva, Switzerland

Q: Where are you originally from?
A: From France and Germany.

Q: In which city are you currently residing?
A: Geneva, Switzerland

Q: What do you do in your new city?
A: I provide cross-cultural training, relocation and global leadership coaching services.

Q: How is the quality of life in your new city in comparison to that of your home city?
A: Quality of life in Switzerland is much higher than in my home countries.

Q: How would you rate the healthcare system in which you are currently enrolled?
A: It’s excellent! That’s why health insurance in Switzerland is so expensive!

Q: How does the cost of living compare to that of your home city?
A: It’s much higher!! Geneva is one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Q: Did you use a relocation company to help you with your move?
A: No.

Q: How easy or difficult was the relocation process?
A: Rather easy, as I already moved several times (my father was a diplomat).

Q: Did you move here with any family members?
A: Yes.

Q: Did your spouse and children find it difficult to adapt to their new job and schools? 
A: No. Children at school are very international and usually open-minded.

Q: How did the family, including you, do in acclimating to the new culture and surroundings?
A: It was not very difficult, as the language was the same. Furthermore, the environment is so beautiful and the quality of life so high, that it was not difficult at all to adapt!

Q: What is your favourite mobile app which you use to aid you in your expat life?
A: The Guidepal city guide about Geneva; it contains a lot of useful addresses.

Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to offer a new expat in your new city?
A: Be aware that prices are much higher than in your country of origin, and therefore it is necessary to adapt the budget accordingly. House rentals are much higher than elsewhere, and apartments are usually smaller.