Digital Nomad Life in Basel, Switzerland
Summary: Basel, Switzerland is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and proximity to other European cities. The city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. The city also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. The best neighborhood to live in Basel is the Old Town, which is located in the center of the city. This area is known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque views of the Rhine River. The approximate population of Basel, Switzerland is approximately 175,000. The weather in Basel, Switzerland is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (0-20 Celsius). The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Basel can vary depending on lifestyle and budget, but a basic budget of around $2,000 USD per month should cover basic expenses. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Basel is approximately $1,500 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Basel?
When we asked people living in Basel about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Basel can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," said one person in Basel.
What is life like in Basel?
When we asked people living in Basel what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Basel is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and proximity to other European countries. Expats and digital nomads in Basel can enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theatres. The city also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding. The cost of living in Basel is relatively high, but the city's excellent public transportation system and efficient healthcare system make it a great place to live. Expats and digital nomads in Basel can also benefit from the city's strong international community, with many expat-friendly events and activities taking place throughout the year," said one person in Basel.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Where should I live in Basel?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Basel is to use online resources such as websites like Immoscout24, Homegate, and Comparis. These websites allow you to search for apartments and houses for rent in Basel and the surrounding area. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on the websites of local real estate agents. Additionally, you can also look for rental properties in local newspapers and magazines. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Basel for recommendations," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.
"I used a relocation agent who showed me multiple neighborhoods and described pros/cons. I then asked colleagues what they thought and went for their recommendations," said one person in Basel.
What do I need to know before moving to Basel?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Basel, they said:
"Watch out for the landlords. Protect yourself as the business people appear, but are not, honest. They have little ethics. The city is central to everything and getting around is easy. If you like culture, this city has a lot to offer. The food is terrible. It is very expensive to live there. There are no provisions for working women. Men are very chauvinistic. I made a number of friends and do like the Swiss, but watch out for the ethical guidelines as they are not like ours," said one expat who made the move to Basel.
"Before retiring in Basel, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. They should also be aware of the language barrier, as the majority of the population speaks German. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system and the availability of medical services in the area. It is also important to understand the tax system and the regulations for obtaining a residence permit. Finally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," explained one foreigner living in Basel, Switzerland.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Basel?
"Expats in Basel appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, which includes a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Finally, expats enjoy the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to settle in and feel at home," said one person in Basel.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Basel?
"Expats in Basel often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as Swiss German is the primary language spoken in Basel. Additionally, the Swiss culture is known for its formality and politeness, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Furthermore, the Swiss are known for their punctuality and precision, which can be difficult for expats to keep up with. Finally, the cost of living in Basel is quite high, which can be a challenge for expats who are not used to such prices," remarked one member in Basel.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Basel for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Basel for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa. You should contact the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country to find out what documents you need to provide in order to apply for a residence permit or visa," explained one person living in Basel, Switzerland.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Basel?
We asked people in Basel if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Basel. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to be respectful of them. It is also important to be aware of the local language, and to avoid speaking too loudly in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local cuisine, and to avoid eating with your hands or making loud noises while eating," said one person in Basel.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are healthcare services like in Basel?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Basel, they replied:
"Basel offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a range of services, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Additionally, Basel is home to a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments. The city also has a number of health insurance providers, which offer a range of plans to cover medical costs. Finally, Basel is home to a number of health-related organizations, such as the Swiss Red Cross, which provide a range of services to the community," explained one digital nomad living in Basel, Switzerland.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Basel?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Basel appreciate the city's high quality of life, with its excellent public transportation, low crime rate, and beautiful natural surroundings. They also enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters. On the downside, the cost of living in Basel can be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak German," explained one person living in Basel, Switzerland.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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