In a video shared on her TikTok account (@heidijinxx), a young Spanish woman living in Switzerland shared her opinion about the country.
"What they don't tell you before moving to Switzerland," she wrote about her video in which, in a critical tone, she dissected the various difficulties and frustrations she has faced since arriving in the Swiss country.
In her words, the young woman pointed out that, although she earns more money than in Spain, the workdays are longer and the cost of living is very high.
In her viral testimony, she criticized the Swiss medical insurance system, explaining that despite paying large monthly sums, she still has to pay considerable amounts when she needs medical attention; she also referred to language barriers.
The video has generated a wide range of reactions on TikTok, where it has amassed over 93 thousand likes and 2.4 million views in just five days.
Among the nearly four thousand comments, where both criticisms and support are added, some users shared their experiences and points of view.
Friend, I am from Malaga, I have been here for three years and honestly, if you have these thoughts, go back home. Switzerland surpasses Spain by far in quality of life, income, and respect; "Do as I do, live in France and work in Switzerland, in Geneva"; "People want everything without effort, I have been in Zurich for a year and it was the best decision, if you are not comfortable, go back"; "In Switzerland, you have the possibility of aiming for a better future, but you have to learn French. It's tough, yes, but you have to start by speaking the language," some said.
The German part is more complicated. Here in Geneva, life is simpler. I work at least 6 to 8 hours a day, most of my jobs are nearby. French is learned gradually; "That's called living life... things are not easy, nothing is given to you, and with that attitude you have, it's best to return"; "I think he only intends that people considering leaving because everything is painted as wonderful, see that not everything is as they say"; "What you pay per month is a deductible. If it's at 2500, which is the maximum (the higher the deductible, the cheaper it will be per month), and you go to the doctor, whatever happens, the first 2500 are on you"; "In Switzerland, you have the ability to pay for all that yourself, here in Spain it barely covers the rent," others added.
The debate sparked by the words of this young woman reflects both the varied experiences of emigrants in Switzerland and the challenges and opportunities that the country offers. While some advise her to persevere and adapt, others suggest reconsidering the decision to emigrate if the difficulties seem overwhelming to her.
What do you think?
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