Thun, Switzerland

"Thun is a small city located in the Swiss canton of Bern, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm. Before moving to Thun, expats should know that the official language is German, specifically the Swiss German dialect. However, English is widely spoken, especially in business settings. The cost of living in Thun, like most of Switzerland, is high. This includes rent, groceries, dining out, and public transportation. Thun has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around the city and travel to other parts of Switzerland. The city is known for its high quality of life, with excellent healthcare and education systems. However, these services can be expensive, especially for non-residents. Switzerland has a mandatory health insurance policy, so expats will need to ensure they have adequate coverage. Thun has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Expats from warmer climates may need to invest in appropriate clothing. Swiss people value punctuality and efficiency, so it's important to be on time for appointments and meetings. Thun is a safe city with a low crime rate, but it's still important to take standard precautions, especially at night or when alone. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking in the summer to skiing in the winter, thanks to its proximity to the Swiss Alps. Swiss cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a strong emphasis on dairy products and meat. Thun has a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. Switzerland has strict recycling and waste disposal rules, so expats will need to familiarize themselves with these to avoid fines. Finally, it's important to note that Swiss people value their privacy and personal space, so it's important to respect this when interacting with locals," commented one expat who made the move to Thun.

"Finding a place to live in Thun, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a single room in a shared apartment to a family-sized house. Next, you should start your search online. Websites like Homegate, ImmoScout24, and Comparis are popular real estate platforms in Switzerland where you can find listings for apartments and houses. You can filter your search based on your preferences such as location, price, size, and type of property. Another option is to check local newspapers and bulletin boards in supermarkets or community centers, as some landlords still advertise their properties in this way. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help you in your search. They can provide you with options that match your criteria, arrange viewings, and assist you with the rental application process. Once you've found a place you're interested in, you'll need to submit a rental application. This typically includes providing proof of income, a copy of your passport or ID, and possibly a reference from a previous landlord. If your application is accepted, you'll then sign a rental contract. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms and conditions before signing. Finally, before moving in, you'll likely need to pay a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one to three months' rent. This will be returned to you when you move out, provided you leave the property in good condition. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's best to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," explained one expat living in Thun, Switzerland.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Thun, is often a modern, well-furnished space that blends contemporary design with traditional Swiss elements. These homes are usually located in residential areas that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The apartments are often spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. They typically feature a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, one or more bedrooms, and a bathroom. Some may also have a balcony or a small garden. The buildings often have amenities like a laundry room, a storage area for bicycles, and sometimes even a shared gym or sauna. The homes are usually located close to public transportation, making it easy for expats to commute to work or explore the city. Despite being in a relatively small town, these homes often come with all the conveniences of modern living, including high-speed internet, central heating, and sometimes even a parking space," remarked one expat who made the move to Thun.

"The average cost of housing in Thun can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent can be around 1,200 to 1,500 Swiss Francs. For the same size apartment outside of the city center, the cost can drop to approximately 1,000 to 1,300 Swiss Francs per month. If you're looking to buy property, the price per square meter in the city center can be around 7,000 to 10,000 Swiss Francs, while outside the city center it can be around 5,000 to 7,000 Swiss Francs. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the current real estate market," commented one expat who made the move to Thun.

"When moving to Thun, you should pack a variety of clothing to accommodate for the varying weather conditions. This includes warm clothing for the winter months, such as thermal underwear, sweaters, scarves, gloves, and a heavy coat. You should also pack lighter clothing for the summer months, including shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear. Don't forget to pack sturdy shoes for walking and hiking, as Thun is surrounded by beautiful nature trails. Rain gear, such as a waterproof jacket and umbrella, is also essential due to the frequent rain in Switzerland. Pack your essential toiletries, but keep in mind that most items can be purchased locally. If you have prescription medications, bring enough to last for your first few weeks, along with a copy of your prescription. Bring your important documents, such as your passport, driver's license, and any necessary visas or work permits. It's also a good idea to have copies of these documents. If you plan on cooking, you might want to pack some of your favorite non-perishable food items, as they may be hard to find in Switzerland. Remember to pack any electronics you use daily, like your laptop or smartphone, along with the necessary chargers and adapters for Swiss outlets. Lastly, bring personal items that will make your new place feel like home, such as photos, small keepsakes, or your favorite books," explained one expat living in Thun, Switzerland.

"Expats planning to retire in Thun, should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high, with expenses such as housing, healthcare, and groceries being more expensive than in many other countries. They should also know that Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare, which is compulsory for all residents, including expats. Switzerland is a multilingual country, and while many people speak English, the main language spoken in Thun is German, so learning some basic German phrases could be beneficial. Switzerland has a high level of safety and a low crime rate, making it a peaceful place for retirement. However, it's important to understand the local laws and customs to avoid any legal issues. Switzerland has a temperate climate, but Thun, being close to the Alps, can have cold winters with snow, so expats should be prepared for this type of weather. Public transportation in Switzerland is efficient and reliable, and Thun is no exception, with a good network of buses and trains. However, owning a car can be expensive due to high import taxes and mandatory insurance. Switzerland has a high quality of life, with plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating, especially in Thun, which is located near Lake Thun and the Swiss Alps. Swiss cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a mix of German, French, and Italian influences, and Thun offers a variety of restaurants and cafes. Lastly, it's important to know that Switzerland is not part of the European Union, so the process of moving and retiring there may be different than in EU countries," said one expat who made the move to Thun.

"Expats in Thun often appreciate the cleanliness and orderliness of the city, which is a reflection of the Swiss culture's emphasis on cleanliness and punctuality. They also appreciate the local culture's respect for privacy and personal space, which allows them to live peacefully without feeling intruded upon. The Swiss tradition of outdoor activities is also appreciated, with the beautiful Lake Thun and surrounding mountains providing ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and boating. The local food culture, particularly the cheese and chocolate, is another aspect that expats enjoy. Additionally, the locals' proficiency in English is appreciated by expats, making it easier for them to communicate and integrate. Lastly, expats appreciate the safety and security in Thun, as Switzerland is known for its low crime rates," commented one expat who made the move to Thun.

"Expats in Thun often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. While many Swiss people speak English, the primary language in Thun is German, and not being fluent can make daily life and integration more difficult. Another challenge is the Swiss people's value for privacy and personal space. This can make it difficult for expats to form close relationships and feel a part of the community. The Swiss punctuality is another aspect that can be challenging for expats. Being late is considered very rude in Switzerland, and this can be a difficult adjustment for people from cultures where time is more flexible. Additionally, the cost of living in Thun is high, which can be a shock for expats. Everything from rent to groceries can be more expensive than in other countries. Lastly, the Swiss are known for their directness in communication which can sometimes be perceived as rudeness by expats. This can be a cultural shock for those who are not used to such straightforwardness," said one expat who made the move to Thun.

"Thun, generally enjoys a low crime rate, reflecting the overall safety of the country. The city is known for its peaceful environment and well-ordered society. While no place is entirely free of crime, incidents in Thun are relatively rare and typically involve minor offenses such as petty theft or vandalism. Violent crimes are particularly uncommon. The local police force is efficient and responsive, contributing to the overall sense of security among residents and visitors. The city's commitment to maintaining public safety is evident in its proactive approach to crime prevention and law enforcement," explained one expat living in Thun, Switzerland.

"1. International School of Berne: Although not located directly in Thun, the International School of Berne is a short commute away and is a highly reputable international school. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program to students from pre-school to grade 12. The school is known for its multicultural environment and high academic standards. [Website](https://www.isberne.ch/) 2. Ecole d'Humanité: This is an international boarding school located in the Swiss Alps, not far from Thun. The school offers a progressive and personalized approach to education, emphasizing experiential learning and outdoor education. It offers classes in both English and German, making it a good choice for bilingual students. [Website](https://www.ecole.ch/) 3. Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz: This is another international boarding school located in Switzerland. It offers both the Swiss Matura and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. The school has a strong focus on languages, offering instruction in German, English, and French. [Website](https://www.lyceum-alpinum.ch/) 4. Institut Montana Zugerberg: This is a private international boarding school located in central Switzerland. The school offers both the Swiss Matura and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and it provides instruction in both English and German. [Website](https://www.montana-zug.ch/en/) 5. International School of Zug and Luzern: This school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program to students from pre-school to grade 12. The school is known for its multicultural environment and high academic standards. [Website](https://www.iszl.ch/) 6. Swiss International School: This school has several campuses across Switzerland, including in nearby Bern. It offers bilingual education in German and English, following both the Swiss curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. [Website](https://www.swissinternationalschool.ch/) Please note that while these schools are not located directly in Thun, they are within commuting distance or offer boarding options," commented one expat when asked about in Thun.