Thank you all for all of the support! It really warms my heart and makes me feel more confident with my decision. :) I'm still working on a plan to leave. I'll keep you posted. My channel will still be open and active! 😉
It's not "giving up so easily". And I have had much more difficult situations hit me. You don't know my life. I've fought through every single situation. You must think it's okay to settle. Why settle? I have many options. I'm young, single, have no kids. I can roam the world until I find a place that feels like home. There is absolutely nothing entitled or "american" about that. It's also not about people disliking me... I don't think you listened to my video at all. it's about me not being HAPPY. Life is short. Why don't people understand this. I could literally die any day and I want to live as many days as I can with happiness in a place I love. My happiness is what is most important.
I don't see it as her giving up necessarily. She has said she would revisit but perhaps now is not the time for her to be in Switzerland. She isn't entitled she's finding it challenging to adjust from what I can tell.
You went and you’ve experienced it & learned what you do and don’t want in an environment that you want to reside in. It’s ok if you want to make a change. Don’t stay stuck in a place you don’t want to be in you’re still young. Too many people do that. Do you girl!!! Good luck finding your happy place🙂
You are absolutely right! I dream to leave Switzerland and move to Cambodia a country I visited several time and I really ❤️ it. I am a Swiss woman living in the french part of the country. People are cold in Switzerland, I feel a lot of negativity. People do not know smiling. It is difficult to have friends even for me. I traveled a lot around the world and every time I return to Switzerland I feel like a stranger. Agressivity, selfishness are a major problem for me. I feel more at home abroad. Staying in my country makes me more sad and depressed. I am sad to speak about Switzerland like that but I know that many expats complain that Switzerland is an unfriendly country and I completely agree. When you are an open minded person Switzerland is not a country for you. People here are never grateful.
I just spent a week in Basel. My husband was there for business. It happened to be Fasnacht. I noticed Swiss people are very reserved, very quiet. Even with this huge celebration for 3 days I didn't see any dancing, any kind of shenanigans you'd typically see with these types of celebrations. Kind of somber. It was beautiful but I can see being depressed there.
yup VERY important. A black persons perspective ould be completely different and sometimes worst than others. I went to school in a small town mostly white to concertrate on studies. once i graduate this may am moving to texas/Atlanta where i could live happy with a sense of community and make friends of my kind. Just a preference i choose for myself
@@Ivo3963 It is racist to say that Black people should not feel differently due to racism against black people in particular. Not everyone thinks like you do.
I’m half swiss, born and raised in Switzerland. I experienced all those subtleties from Kindergarden on pretty much. They do not like foreigners there. I moved away as soon as I was done with studies. Still haven’t found a “home” but I’m not giving up just yet. It‘s difficult to explain to people who have never lived there, they don‘t usually believe it.
I know exactly what she means! Moral of the story..do not believe everything you read online! She is spot n folks..just go and experience for yourselves. Some of the people think they are better than you...I had an old lady steer me down when. Got on the train and sat opposite her...she did not crack a smile! Switzerland is not that great a place as they have rated. PERIOD! A lot of them get jobs in USA or Caribbean banks, just because of their language and they never want to move back to their country, because what they thought was great in Switzerland was better elsewhere. I agree they are cold people,,snooty....think they are better, but you take nothing with you when you die..just be nice, no matter what!
Thank you very much for making this honest video! I've lived in the German part of Switzerland for one and half years, and it was pretty traumatizing. Especially the racism and the part of not being able to be yourself was hard for me. You have all my sympathy, and I cross my fingers for you that you can leave soon 💖
Hey Sistah.. follow your heart and bounce.. I'm sure most of your viewers have noticed that you didn't seem happy there (I know I did), and was straining to find reasons to stick with it.. You are Smart, Beautiful and have the right to be Happy Everyday! The whole world is your stomping ground. Come home to USA, or find another Adventure in another Country where Racism isn't a major factor. You'll make the right decision either way.
Time to go. I just started watching your channel. Six months is plenty. You've learned stuff, met people and traveled a bit. Travel more or come back to the States...hey check out China! Im not kidding...as stated...you're young, smart and courageous. Big world! See more of it!!
Come on men...racism isn't an issue here. Normally, i try to not comment about such stuff but as a swiss who loves his country, i feel very insulted by what you assume. I guess you are from the US. The country who has white supremacists openly demonstrating on the streets, who currently builds a wall towards Mexico, who has a police brutality problem towards black people, who voted for Donald Trump (i cannot judge him as a President but i can judge him for what he says, does and tweets and boy, that is some bad racist stuff sometimes). But despite all that, i think the majority of americans are good and great people. Not racists. It would be naive and dangerous to believe that our society (all arround the world) has not to deal with racism. But to judge a whole country just on a small percentage of people isn't good. I have a japanese wife. She lives here with me for several years now and she never encountered any problematic form of racism. After all, as far as i understood Leah, that is not the reason why she has the feeling to leave.
I live in Italy near Switzerland, lately I go frequently to Swisstzerland because I am looking for a job, and to me people seems depressed as well! When I am in Italian stations people talk and laugh, then in Swiss stations all people are just silent and look at their phones, no one even smile 🤷🏻♀️ but I love the fact that they are usually kind people, and maybe shy, like me lol
As an American in the airline business, I have visited Switerzland countless times over decades, and have many friends there. While I love it immensely, I would find it very difficult for Americans to settle there, fully assimilate, and truly be happy. The culture is far too different. If you grew up there, I am certain it would be far different. American friends have experienced occasional discrimination in the Zurich region just because they are not Swiss., and that is why I really prefer Swiss Romande or Ticino. Perhaps you should try moving there first. The poor weather with the little sun is a severe problem for many residents except in the Ticino. Being a native of California, forget it! If you can't fit into the cultural landscape it would make things even much more challenging. I give you plenty of kudos for trying, but I would like you to come back to America. We need smart, intelligent, hard-working, and adventurous young people, like you. Come back home, lovely lady!
"While I love it immensely, I would find it very difficult for Americans to settle there, fully assimilate, and truly be happy. " You are lying to yourself and everyone else.
@@zurechtweiser No, Swiss German people are the WORST to deal with. She is absolutely right. Germans for example are much more inclusive and friendly. I prefer Germany or Spain over Switzerland 100 %. They are welcoming and open and allow you to be yourself. Its just facts.
It's VERY rare that I reach out to people, but I felt the need. I HATE being cold and for the most part any type of bad weather which is why I moved to HCMC. If you are still open to living abroad I HIGHLY recommend living in Vietnam! I am madly in love with Saigon. YES it has its cons, but the pros out weighed the cons for me. Not a day goes by that I dont think about Ho Chi Minh. In my opinion its the best kept secret when it comes to living abroad. There is something going on EVERYDAY!!! Free Cocktails flowing at night (HCMC has the best ladies nights) There is a coffee shop every 100 feet, they are everywhere lol. There is also a great expat support group of friends B.I.S. (Black in Saigon) Hope this helps :)
Thanks for reaching out! I will definitely try Vietnam. I have yet to go to asia. It intimidates me honestly but maybe now is the time. Thanks for the support :)
Wanderlust Lexi Exactly! There is nothing wrong with changing your mind. I went to Switzerland in my 20's and didn't find the people to be very friendly. No shame in going home.
Follow your heart hun. From my experience...I am living in Geneva (which I love) and it is the city which attracts a lot of internationals, which gives one the opportunity to meet a lot of personalities. Still with that being said, I am still having to get use to a toned down lifestyle in terms of the nightlife (nightlife exists but more mellow compared to parts of the USA/UK), shops closing early etc. I had visited another part of Switzerland before deciding on GE, and the vibe did not sit with me hence why I chose GE. Everyone deserves happiness, so don't just settle. Switzerland will always be here.
If you're not happy then you should leave...point blank. I just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and was very interested to see your experience. I had a grandaunt who married and moved there from The Bahamas but she was very distant from her family and so I was always curious about life there. Thank you for sharing all of this. I will not stigmatize the place as "racist" but only we know the struggle. Blessings on your decisions moving forward. Ase.
Honey, what you experience is simply culture shock. First there's the honeymoon phase then you go through a phase where you see everything negative as you're dealing with settling in. This will happen to you everywhere foreign you go. Either you are though enough to fight through it or you aren't. If you arent, by all means: you should't force yourself to do it, HOWEVER: if you give up too easily, you might regret it later on in your life. So my advice would be to hang on just a little bit longer and see again how its going once spring has properly arrived.
double agree! I lived in 8 different countries, and you can't expect everything the same as where you used to. so don't compare and just live as the locals.
Right but I don't want to live as the locals do here. That's the thing. I don't like the coldness, the closed mindedness, the strictness, everything.... It's not for me. So why should I settle and live as they do?
I think you should get a boyfriend who can show you around and help you with the transition and then you'd be able to enjoy your time here more. Try Parship - that's where I met my husband.
I didn't mean that, you should still be you and keep the values you treasure. What I mean is the lifestyle definitely changes from culture to culture, from country to country. If you have a choice, choose a place which fits your lifestyle. Many people don't have the choice. But one thing is common across all, there is no other place exactly like where you used to live, so there will always be some differences. And if those differences are ok for you to accept, then you need to adapt to it. Before you can change the environment, try to look at the positive sides, at least you won't feel miserable, and negative feels can be amplified if you only focus on the negative points. I once for work lived in one of the world's poorest country and there is also warzone there. There is nothing there even personal safety is at stake. I was very unhappy at the beginning, but then I focused on what makes be happy. And I tried to look at positive things in my life. I think it can help you feel better before you change the environment.
Hi there, I have been in Swiss for approx 9 months right now and I totally agree with you. Honestly, Swiss is not for me either. People here seems depressed and disconnected from each other. They are so systematic in their ways and always on “Swiss time” as they call it. Most people are friendly on outwards though but it’s very hard to connect to Swiss people.
Leontyne, I have an interesting question for you. I'm an American who've been living in a different land for about 8 years now. It seems as if Switzerland is a place as you said, not the place for you at this time in your life, but here's the question. What did you bring to Switzerland? What kind of work do you do? What kind of feelings do you offer the people of Switzerland? Example: I'm a black man whom happens to be an instructor of Argentine Tango. I've started schools here where I am, but the key is that I teach the art in a very different way. I teach it from the inside-out, as a feeling not just a dance. People where I am never looked at dance the way I teach it. I'll tell you that it is a former Soviet Country where people are NOT use to making contact with other humans in a deep way. It has been a wonderful learning experience for both them and myself. I guess the real question would be "Who are you"? I've found that it's not that you expose things to people, but how we do it. I had to do some research on the land to understand how the people got to be the way they are first in order to find an approach to show them something different. I'd like to chat further if you'd like, because you seem to be a little frustrated about this and I thought sharing my experience could help in some way. All the best.
I like the way your videos are always from the heart. You are right though, Switzerland is not for everybody, especially if you are of the outgoing personality you have just described. The Swiss like order, peace of mind and neatness. Probably you should have done a really thorough research before moving here. But then again in your video that you sent your resignation letter to your boss in US, you were still giving reasons why you were unhappy in America. Which makes me think you could be looking for something out of life that does not exist. Anyway follow your heart and whatever you do may you find joy.
Why research? Her parents are Swiss. And if you dont go you never know, so now she knows, wheres the problem? Its just her opinion, doesnt have to agree with yours. I dont like your passive aggressive tone in your comment. "Which makes me think you could be looking for something out of life that does not exist." Well, what if she didnt find her place yet? The world is big and not only America or Switzerland. There are tons of beautiful places for her left over.
Yes get out if your not happy love. Life is to short to stay some where your not happy.. your beautiful smart young live your best life you deserve it..💜💙💚💛❤💞
Lea It’s only been 6 months, You are still very young... give yourself the opportunity to see all the surrounding countries in the meantime. Yes... I can see you are a happy bubbly person... and that’s just beautiful. You really will be okay... are you missing your friends and family from your home town? You have said you are too loud ... too this and that ...Could you be wrong? Those aren’t really such bad qualities. This is a great opportunity that may or may not repeat itself in a lifetime. Sometimes it’s not loneliness but alone- ness. I think we all are looking on and sympathize and even validate your feelings. Just know you’re loved... not really truly alone and give yourself the time to make the right choice... some of us have never given ourselves that introspect and have gone in search of the elusive something that was not somewhere else but within us. We love you darling.
BAIL!!!! LEAVE GIRL LEAVE! You gave it a try and that is what counts. Life is way to short. Once you become a fully functioning adult, you can not go along just to get along. You set up your life the way you want to live, not the way you want to just "get by". If you look around and you don't like it, no matter if its a person, place or thing.....change it! You have such a sweet spirit about you, don't ignore your intuition. Don't let a place turn any of that bubbly personality into flat soda lol. If you feel its time to go, then you go. You need to be by sunshine and water! Best of luck and many blessings to whatever you decide and where ever in the world your heart takes you.
It is obvious that Switzerland isn't your spiritual home. You are a warm and vital person and should find a place to match your spirit. Have you considered Latin America, specifically Panama? I lived there years ago and I keep going back. The locals are warm and kind and the life can be as simple or as grand as you desire. Like Florida, there are many, many miles of beaches. Like you said, every place has its pros and cons. Because I love Panama, I can deal with the cons. There is the tiny town of Boquete in the central mountainous region of the country. Some people call it the little Switzerland of Central America. That is a bit of a stretch, but it is gorgeous and green year round. BTW, I am visiting Switzerland next week for an alumni gathering. I just thought it was time to break the Latin America routine for a change. I wish you the best of luck in your travels.
Do what you think you will be happy with. Many people come to CH because good salaries but they sacrifice many things, friends, family, better weather, way of living they are used to etc. As swiss national you can live and work in any EU country, maybe more sunny countries would suites you better. Spain for example or Italy. They are more friendly, open minded, easy going. You said that you would like to live near the shore, consider Spain. Try different places, cities, countries, explore. You are young. You can go back home anytime. I wish you all the best :) Hope to see more videos from you, wherever you are :)
Bob Bob you said she internalized racism ? I don't call it internalized , when one of the locals spat on her, simply because of the color of her skin. Maybe you did not see that video.
Sharon ! Racism is everywhere unfortunately A non black person is taking their life into their own areas entering certain predominantly 'black areas' for example.. There isn't one place in existence that doesn't have degrees of racism, unfortunately so. Spitting on someone is disgusting and should be a chargeable offence. Im sorry she experienced that.
As a Swiss guy living in Basel (which I really love) I really appreciate videos like yours: they show how CH is not the paradise country most of people think it is. Thus I also found a lot of the cons you talk about by moving to Basel from the Italian part which I am from. I feel extremely sorry about the racism experiences you had. I think xenophobia is really becoming a serious problem here, even though Basel is an open-minded island compared to where I am from. Hope everything is going to be fine for you 😉
Being in a foreign country for an extended period of time can be incredibly hard especially depending on where you are coming from. You know you better than anyone else can know you and if you are sick of it, you are sick of it. One should never question their feeling and it is great that you have come to this realization now before having spent many years there.
I feel you girl ! I lived for 15 years in Switzerland and I was never happy , even tho it’s a beautiful place I just don’t feel like living there ! I did everything to move to America . Stay strong ❤️
Damn. 15yrs. I think its the scenery and landscape that sells people. people dont do enough research on the actual experiences with the people of the country which is probably the most important thing
Sounds very similar to the _Seattle Freeze_ where people don't want to build new relationships, because they already have their friends. And Seattle has almost constant grey and drizzly skies, and depression is significantly higher there.
@@LeahhhLux try to go to South of Italy and then to Germany and you'll see that each country in Europe is totally different under this point of view :D
You remembered me a Swiss guy that got in love with Mexico that have a channel in spanish and told something like the right country to be is where you feel happy. He choses to stay in Mexico. So I remember a Venezuelan guy that first emigrate to Uruguay, and then to Portugal, but didn't felt good in Portugal and wanted to came back Uruguay (I'm from here), and say something similar to the swiss, that the economy is not all, if you don't feel happy. So, hope you find the place in the world that makes you happy.
Honey you don’t have to justify anything to anyone. You can’t stay in a place where you can’t be yourself! This was great experience for you but “guess what” this is not the place for you. No harm done, you are young and resilient this is the time to try new things. If you want to go home...go home. Maybe you can try some other place later on. I’ll be here waiting for the videos of your next adventure. Hugs
I moved to Geneva in 2015 and they do have drinks during the week. The only thing is, it depends on who you're going with. People with kids are not gonna be so keen to do that. I guess it depends where you work and who are your friends. Swiss people are bit closed but once they open up to you they become amazing friends! And it's true, people are happier in Summer.
Girl I hope you find your happy place! Sounds to me like UK would be your place because the weather isn’t that bad, people are open minded and outspoken. It’s an amazing place
Come back to USA, but keep traveling abroad. Always remember friends are hard to find. You will have a lot of associates more to hang out with then friends. So if you find a friend or two you are blessed. Do what’s best for you and enjoy your journey threw this life. ☺️
It depends on your stage of life and what you need now. When I was your age, I lived in NYC and loved it. Now we have two young children and Switzerland is a great place for their childhood and family lifestyle. And we love winter and skiing ⛷.
1. go shopping on Fridays and you will have more time on weekends.XD 2. People are not just happy in the summer; the weather does not have to be warm or people do not have to smile to be happy. 3. Being too friendly towards strangers without reason is seen as having a bad ulterior motive; there are times, situations and places where it is not: you may talk to someone about your and their love of books and reading when at the bookstore, start friendships at football matches, talk about political stuff in a pub(same goes for any kind of sport-stuff), go to events that interest you, etc., etc.. Don't just go and say "I like your shirt" to someone in public, but say something like "I like your skateboard (or something else the person you want to talk to obviously likes), do you know a good skating spot somewhere?", orwhatever. Show interest in them personally and not just in what they are wearing(except if that IS their hobbyXD). I have not really experienced the "difficult" part in finding new friends in Switzerland, that you described; just be friendly and somewhat persistent and they will open up on their own faster than you think. Someone once said to me: "Gaining a Swiss friend is gaining a friend for life. It may be a little more difficult to gain swiss person's friendship but it is worth it." PS. isn't this situation somewhat like the dating situation of every man?: You ask 10 women out and at most 2/3rds(if not less) are interested in you?-_-
Girl... I'm a turkish-german person from Germany planning on moving down to Switzerland. I would have LOVED YOU! I can't get along with cold ass german people too! I am dorky, goofy and bubbly, colourful and will talk my truth! In which city have you been in Switzerland? Maybe people are different in Basel... At least I hope so :D I also thought about moving to Chicago but the US scares me. Or Australia! I want to LIVE! Idealistically with a caring community around me! Not just work and get sour at home...
I'm from Chicago (I live in the EU now) and it's mostly media hype. It's a nice city, you just have to watch where you go in certain neighborhoods, but I've seen the same in France, UK and Germany. I'll be back to the US one day.
I understand I have traveled and lived abroad, and if you feel that way you should go home. It is not a point of being ungrateful it is the point of being comfortable if you are not comfortable and happy then it is time to leave. So hold your head up and know that it is okay the way you feel. Take care I enjoy your channel.
I totally understand you. Born and raised in Switzerland. Yes, many people are unhappy here. Go where you find your happiness. Let people comment and judge, they will anyway. It's your life not theirs. Where are you now?
Sorry to hear that. I felt similarly about Australia. Then I moved to Switzerland and I absolutely loved it. Hope you find a great place that suits you soon 😊
Danica Christin Depends where in Australia. Some areas are beautiful and a joy to be in.; other places are depressing and horrible. I found the same in UK and US.
Danica Christin Australia has a lot of sun ☀️ She needs to grow up and comparing and learn to find❣️ This whole complaining is childish that she is not aware of in herself❣️💜💔💜❣️
I am in Zurich and i'm very unhappy as well I felt like a zambi I have never in my life experience depression until I came here. On weekends all I think about is to find away out like go back to the Caribbean trust mi.
Hello dear... I've been living in Geneva for almost 3 years now, and I feel absolutely the same way you do!! Thinking quite a lot about the future, what's the next step in my life... but well, you know what in the end it's all worth it right? Living and learning, that's for sure. I hope you find the right path, and maybe, who knows we'll meet up someday :)
Weather sucks. Seasonal depression..Real!..very expensive and you will never get a chance to buy your own home...it’s like we allow governments worldwide to tax us to low standard of living. Time for citizens world wide to take a stance against tax extortion...people have a right to happiness without struggling to make ends meet.
I am super proud of you! You hold your head up! If you need to go, go. Many young women never move outside of their comfort zone. Discrimination is very depressing. Cold,grey weather is depressing. Go somewhere that you can thrive and live well.
I hear you on all these points. Yes, winter is long and sad and the mood here reflects this. It's going to get so much better now that spring is here. But you're right, do we really want to live somewhere where people are depressed for 6 months out of the year??? I ask myself this all the time. I wish you could find more friends to hang out with on the weekends. I'm here with my kids and husband, so that helps. I agree, Switzerland might be a better place for you when you have a family. We moved here when my first child was 1 and it was perfect because Switzerland is so great for families, so safe, so many great activities for kids. But my single friends find it much harder. My main tip for surviving winter here is to be as active as possible. My life really improved here when I started getting to the mountains almost every weekend during winter to snowboard and do winter walks. Getting above the clouds and being active during winter helps my mood tremendously. Also, I try to cram in as much fun in summer, so by the time winter comes along, I appreciate a little hibernation time to relax and catch up on projects at home. I also agree it's hard to find a community where you can be your loud happy self. Luckily, I live in a neighborhood where we have lots of expats from other open, friendly countries so I'm not the only loud one. Wishing you happy times to come and hoping you can at least enjoy spring and summer here, which is amazing. If you like to hike, I have a few of my favorites from last summer that I can share.
Dear Léontyne, I am Swiss so I really understand what you're trying to express... First of all, I am really sorry that your experience in Switzerland has not been as you might had expected. Well, there is not much you can do about the weather... The weather in Switzerland is like in London..(winter = long, cold and rainy) except that we really have snow here. And it really influences the mood of a lot of people. You are right.. it is not that easy to meet new people as a foreigner in CH.. and to be honest Basel is not really the city where the most clubs and bars are.. therefore, it attracts different types of people.. your experience in cities like Geneva and Zurich would have been completely different... You should really follow your guts.. but please, take time of and get to know other cities as well.. it's worth it!
I hear the same song from just about every black person who has lived there 😰😱. I visited for a week & a 3 days were enough. Racism thick & runs deep...
Hello, Well first of all I'm really sorry that Switzerland did not turn out as you would have liked. I lived in Zürich for almost 10 years and to be honest I really can't say anything negative. It's all about understanding Swiss people to be honest, the language and the culture. For example I speak swiss-german and always noticed how other African Americans were having a very hard time fitting in. In my opinion the Swiss are keeping away from African Americans because of all the negative, crude and violent behaviour. I'm aware that it's not just us ...but the colour of our skin places us at the center of attention so anything negative from automatically gets amplified. I really hope you find happiness, a place where you feel welcome and can call HOME
You are human,a nd not your color, if Swiss classify you into black white or whatever and then judge you based on your color, you are not surrounded by good people. The most violent serial killers in the U.S have been white men. You are generalizing so much in your comment, you fit well into the Swiss society.
You may need to get something like the Philips EnergyLight for the darkness in the Winter. Also do get your vitamin D level checked. Winter is hard and when it's over a lot of people get Frühjahrsmüdigkeit, which is not to be taken lightly. I think that you're going through culture shock as well, though. It may help to get involved in the local activities in the Winter like going skiing and participating in Fasching/Fastnacht/Carnival, Guggenmusik, attending sports events like Volleyball or Handball; or in fall there are Fairs/Chilbi/Olma, etc. There should be some Easter markets and other related activities soon and of course when Summer comes there are all the open air music festivals and you can go to your local Badi, go biking, hiking, etc. I think it was easier for me because I had already lived in Germany for a number of years and could speak German very well and I instantaneously found everything about Switzerland better than Germany. I also haven't experienced any racism at all in almost 2 years. Additionally, my family is here and my son is involved in all sorts of activities at school, church and the music school, so that gets us out and about quite a lot. Good luck.
Girl... I FEEL YOU!!!! I've been trying to survive Germany/Switzerland for over 3 years now. I have no idea how I've done it. I would totally move tomorrow if I could.
I'm really sorry to hear that :( I do understand that making friends in Switzerland is difficult... what excactly is the reason you don't like it here? You don't need to tell me if you don't want to but i'm very interested
Have u done the black people meet up as I've seen a few of the other countries like France and Netherlands... It's important to establish community... I'm not saying only hold to black... Do it with other groups but you can start with the other black RUclipsrs that are vlogging abroad honey bunny... Just a suggestion even for the next place you try out.
Switzerland isn’t the United States! Your expecting it to be the same. The culture is different. They are not as open. Have you tried making friends the Switzerland way? Just because people don’t smile all the time the way we do doesn’t mean they are unhappy. Your problem is you want Switzerland to conform to you and not the other way around.
We are not as 'open'? Look, the people in the US I consider to be pretty fake. At least we are pure and not faking anything here for you just to make you feel cozy and warm. Earn it or cry silently.
I'm Swiss and lived in Switzerland my whole life but I do struggle with some of the things you mentioned as well. I was bullied in school so I don't really have friends left from that time. But since it's true that almost everybody has their friend groups from grade school and so on, I also struggle with finding friends. I do have friends from university or from going out but none of them are really close friends and I really do miss that. I just don't know how to go from lose friends to close friends, it seems almost impossible. Furthermore, I also struggle with the weather, the winter is really long and it's making me depressed. But I just don't know it any other way, so I don't really think about it much... But I guess I would be happier overall in a place with more sun.
Hear me out. You need to come to Spain. Sun and drinks galore. I'll give you tips about moving here, and you'll give me tips about moving there. Done deal.
I would recommend Spain more for visiting than living. You might encounter the same problem in trying to make friends. Most Spainards have the same friends since childhood and aren't really open to making new ones. (Speaking from alot of experience)
Be proud of your journey and growth. You have done well to be so young. If 6 months abroad is enough for you, move on. You are already a winner no matter your choice. Do what makes you happy!
Racism is really an issue in Switzerland. I think, Switzerland is only a good place for you, if you are SWISS, WHITE and very RICH. I say that based on my personal experience as a Finnish person in Switzerland. You are very brave to make this video, wish you all the best!
I lived and worked in Switzerland for six months. I was very very ready to leave. I felt the same as you do...the cons just outweighed the pros. Beautiful place, loved the history - but - everything you said resonated with me.
I wouldn’t characterize you as being ungrateful or negative. In fact, I think that you have been kind in your description of Switzerland. When I was in Lucerne I found it to be like a bright, shiny diamond...pretty but cold. You are too effervescent to live there. I noticed that you were a little “hard” the last video. You actually seemed sad to me, and I felt so bad for you. I think people who follow you really like your personality, so I for one want you to be happy wherever that is. Go explore and discover. Find your place in this great big world. I’m rooting for you!😉🌸
Hi there, I am bethel please can I chat with you, I'm moving to Lucerne as a student this September and I was wondering if I can ask some questions about Lucerne in general and the best way to find accomodation and jobs
@@bethelanyaogu7551 , Hi Bethel, that’s great! I don’t think that I am the best person to advise you only because I was there on vacation. I would want to be fair to Lucerne and to you. It’s very beautiful there. I wish you well 🥰
Hi sis i am sorry about your bad experience in Switzerland. Everything happens for a reason. Be strong. You may consider Japan as another destination if you still wants to live abroad. Many foreign expats live happily here and earning decent living. I am coming to Switzerland on business trip for a week in early may. Would be great to meet you!
I KNEW this is how you would feel because you remind me of myself and I WOULD FEEL THE EXACT SAME WAY! lol You lasted longer than what I would have though. I say GO! Switzerland sounds Beautiful and Depressing.
I remember two years ago i went to Viena, Austria to study for a year and for the most part it was a great experience but at the end of the year i was so done with it that i wanted to go back to my home country. I get what you feel. There's no other place like home.
I went through something similar when I moved to South Florida in 1990, for five years. Places closed early. I didn't know anybody...there was no way to make new friends... all I did was work and go home. I ended up selling the business that I bought after owning it for 5 years....turned a good profit on it and RAN back home to New England! Switzerland like many other countries sounds nice on paper I think...lol..Maybe it was too high up on a pedestal for you? I would leave Switzerland to go to south of France hang out there before I come back to America... try some other countries and see what it's like. I'd have to be in a little bit better weather.. I like the cold weather but I couldn't stand it for 10 months. Good luck to you & greetings from Boston! ☘⚘☘
You should really just go wherever you want to and do what makes you happy. 😉 A German comedian once said that you can also suffer from depression, even if you're living in a villa at Lac Léman/Lake Geneva. And I think that's absolutely true, there are things more important than wealth and beautiful landscapes. For the wheather part, I can confirm that Switzerland pretty much sucks in winter, unless you go skiing/snowboarding. (Because unless you're in the mountains it's not really a fairytale land in winter, I like the summer much more.) When you're high up in the mountains the wheather is usually great, meaning blue sky and sunshine. But of course it's not cheap nor really enjoyable when you're doing it alone. I also think Swiss people really are grumpier or even more anti social (in the sense that there's less going on in winter) in winter because of the wheather. But that would not be entirely our fault now would it? ^^ I'd say the mood of most people changes if they don't see the sun for several days. Also Swiss summer is more like mid May until August/September I'd say, that would be at least one month more. It also rains more during the summer months, but despite that it can get really hot, I promise. The last summers in Thun it wasn't unusual when the thermometer was above 30°C or even above 35°C.. Wish you all the best.
i raised up here in switzerland and im living here for 30 years! i have no friend, people are sad and i domnt like switzerland! it is hard to live here! can i come with you? :) LOL
What a whiny channel. You guys are doing something or some things fundamentally wrong. Stop trying to make others look worse just because you have issues and are unwilling to improve yourselves instead.
Also note that milk is not fortified with vitamin D in Switzerland/Germany/France. You might have really low levels of vitamin D now. It's worth getting it checked at the doctor or getting supplements.
Peace Sis! I am so sad you are not having the experience you were hoping for. Since you have a degree in education and have the experience of teaching in Switzerland, you can take that and run to another country! Have you ever thought of going to the caribbean? Since you enjoy warm weather that might be a good change, you have culturally enriched countries in the caribbean not to mention some of the recreation that exists there in that area might suit your beautiful bubbly personality. On top of that you can hop from island to island girl! But what ever you do, you were able to get away from the US partly because of old dude in the White House. Please do not come back here unless you absolutely have to! You deserve to live in a paradise of your own making!!! I am rooting for you!
I totally understand how you’re feeling. I lived in Germany for many years and even when I spoke German and followed along with the normal routines I was unhappy. It took be just doing me and creating my own happiness which included frequent trips to Spain to recharge my battery and Vitamin D. Perhaps you can start a meetup group that would bring both expats and Swiss together to do the things you want to do. I am in Southern California right now and honestly as an adult it can be hard to make. We friends in the states too but definitely not as hard as there I’m sure.
U R not alone 😂😂😂I married to a Swiss and living here nearly 10 years ... and after 4 to 5 years tried to made friends with the Swiss and I can just tell U I gave up totally 😒😒
I’m a 67 yr old retired American Black woman. I’ve lived in 5 different countries. I’ve been living in mainland China for 5 years. I NEVER dreamed of living here. I was watching your channel at 12a.m., sitting in a cafe that knows me so well, I can sit for 4 plus hrs without even buying anything. In China, especially where there aren’t very many people of color, many businesses WELCOME a foreigner using their services. It draws customers. When you keep going to the same businesses, people greet you. My veggie vendor FORCES extra free veggies on me that I have to give away ‘cause I don’t want to waste them. I never dreamed Chinese would be so welcoming to me. They too, suffer from bad press. And it’s not because I’m a linguist. My Mandarine is NOT good. You’re a beautiful, positive young woman. Please get out of there ASAP.
I think you should follow your gut and if your not happy it might not be the place for you. Follow your instincts and don't force it. Your young its the perfect time to explore, make mistakes, try new things, places etc and discover what will eventually make you happy. All the best with your decision.
Hello again Léontyne. You of course must follow your heart. Just my 2 cents as an American who has moved to European countries 4 times over the last 30 years. It takes a year but more often 2 years before you can feel at home in a new culture. I have done the back and forth thing more than once surprising myself by missing both for different reasons. The lack of vitamin D is a huge factor in the winter blues here. The sun is out today and there are real clouds out. I hope you walk in it and enjoy yourself. Let your skin soak some up. Watch the smiles start to form on the faces of the Swiss as they crawl out of the funk. The gatherings will start, people will begin to share food and drink, they will dance and make music and sing. Give it a little more time. Summer is longer than 2 months here and full of festive rejoicing, and if you decide to stay in this clean, low crime, un poisoned land that fights no wars and protects its ecology and water with very little poverty. Then do what smart people do. And go someplace warm in the winter. In the meantime make sure your getting a good source of vitamin D, no joke. May you be blessed wherever you go🙏
Hi. You wanna live in Portugal!!!! Sun shine, nice people, nice food and people that love to have fun. Ps: im portuguese, living in Chile and moving to Switzerland in july. Thanks for your Chanel!
I recommend vitamin d and b-complex for the weather induced low mood. Tanning beds used regularly and over long periods of time have been found to increase the risk for melanoma; that being said, they are also used for medicinal purposes like getting rid of bilirubin build up in the liver. When you are in desperate need of a mood lifter 7 minutes in a tanning bed might be worth the risk; especially if you're only doing it once a month. Disclaimer: These statements have not been approved by the FDA and are not intended to treat or cure illness or disease...
I life in Basel too and sometimes it pisses me off also, not the racism but anyway.... totaly legit if u don't like it, i would go to more southern european countries like italy or spain, ppl are definatly more bubbly and outgoing ;)
Omggg giiirl i was born and raised here in basel and i hate it here as well ❤️ and i‘m not socially awkward i‘m super extroverted and i feel like that’s wrong here i feel so ungreatful but it’s just the society here makes me feel so alone and sad xoxo
Gurrrrl. They would kick my ass outta that country. You and I are very similar, plus add loud Cuban roots raised in Miami. Find your happiness babe. The world is too big and beautiful to feel like a big fish 🐟 in a small pond. Hell nah! Keep swimming... Hugs from Miami!!!
I'm really sorry to hear that! I'm a German living in Switzerland and some of the points you mention sound so familiar... I mostly have friends from Germany and all around the world, but Swiss people are so hard to befriend and I also feel my personality is too lively and outgoing for them to handle :D. Weather sucks big time! But that's the same in Germany:/ ... I have family, so I profit more from all the great things Switzerland has to offer. Like a breathtaking nature, beautiful parks and playgrounds, low crime rate, social security etc. From what you describe, you should try moving to Barcelona!
What truly does Switzerland have to offer that so many countries don't? Breathtaking nature? Seriously? Can't you find that elsewhere? Beautiful parks and playgrounds? Hahahaha come on! Low crime rate? There's crime everywhere even in Switzerland! Social security? Hahahaha now this is getting ridiculous! Social security in Switzerland is on the decline if you don't know! Stop painting Switzerland like it's some paradise. It's just highly over-rated that's all! Nothing special!
I forgot to mention that ,as others have already pointed out, life here takes a 180 in summer. Because the sun goes down around 9 to 10 in the evening during the summer months, ppl spend so much more time outside in bars and cafés. I live near a big lake and it often has this Mediterranean feeling when we go out in the evening with music, lights and laughter everywhere. It's a bit weird to describe but as soon as the sun comes out in April/May people just go nuts to get a glimpse of it :) myself included
Julia Riel you are just trying to fit her in your narrow-minded way of life in Switzerland. If you can't have fun in winter but only in summer then life must be very depressing! Even in summer most Swiss try to escape the country and go on vacations because Switzerland doesn't have much to offer in general. Summer doesn't change anything! Stop lying! Even in summer people are still unfriendly, straight-faced, depressed just like in winter. It's something you can't change in Switzerland.
Leon today am gonna tell u......u look perfect and so beautiful, I like ur new hair style, and ur make up ain't too much, u really look like an African woman . I feel bad that ur leaving and am also happy for you to leave , bse as " melanin people of the sun" , the sun is our best friend and we can't go too many days without saying hello to it. I can understand how u feel. And ur right the Swiss are closed people , especially the Swiss Germans, I used to live in wintherthur in Zurich and I left after 3 months , the first time, and came back to Basel and stayed for 4 days and went to Munich . But u should have tried the southern part , like Lugano , the people there are more open and welcoming and there is always an expectation of a happy mood. U shouldn't have stayed in the house after work.....u could have taken the train to Zurich down town and met some happy people. And there are African communities there and bars for black people...ofcousre not only Africans but black and brown people from all over the world. With my ex boyfriend since he is an attorney I used we used to meet with some of his friends knee in a while but they were also so closed to me , so I found my way and discovered places on my own, sometimes it's hard to get along when ur black in Switzerland as they will always see u as a foreigner no matter how long u stay, I hope when u go back to the states where ur Herat lies u will be happy, east or west home is best, and to me , I left back to Africa despite having a good well provided for life in Switzerland. And the fact that I have family in Munich I found Munich to be more welcoming since the people there are not so closed. But all in all I just want u to be who u truly are...and one more thing don't always take advise from the other side as criticism , sometimes it's a way of looking into our selves and helping us to truly discover who we are. Ur are beatific woman.
I totally can relate to your experience. I was once an exchange student in Germany & lived in a small city of Lahr, Germany. The town is just a few hours from where you live now, Basel Switzerland & also borders the country of France. I tell you, I was totally bored to tears. it was very hard to make friends with the locals & being a minority did not help either. Being a student at that time I was able to buy Euro Trail Student Pass at a discount & used that opportunity to travel some parts of Europe. My most memorable trip was traveling to Italy. Italians are more friendly & easy to talk to with fewer hang-ups. My advice to you, take the time to travel to other parts of Europe especially Italy or Spain. People, there are friendlier & warm. Viel Glück.
One other advice is, learn their language. It will open up a new perspective outlook once you learn their language. It will open a new door for you, It did on me. Another thing I learned when traveling was backpacking. It was easy to travel hopping from one train to another. Being a student at that time I could only afford to stay at Hostels which was cheap but I was able to meet a lot of people from all over the world & made friends with them during my stay at the hostel.
Journal about how you feel and go with what feels right. I’ve been living in Japan for over a year and knew it’s getting close for me to leave. I want to move on and will be leaving in the fall so I understand your struggle. Best wishes.
I hate to hear that you're not happy, it's sad when you put your time into something and it's not what you had expect it, but sometimes we have to push through and maybe there's a brighter light at the end of the path, don't give up stay strong you're a savvy woman you will make the right decision when the time comes , remember those kids in the classroom they're counting on you
Courageous lady. At least u tried. By the way, u look great with y our hair that way, and the red lipstick and nails. U look geat. Hope you will find your place in the world.
I hope you'll see this comment: I just saw your video about your first day in Switzerland and yeah… I thought the whole time "Oh dang I hope she survives the culture shock" and now I saw this video and I conclude… the shock was maybe a little to strong. As a Swiss, living in America, I completely understand why it's hard for you. In the same way it's hard for you living in Switzerland, it's sometimes hard for me to live in the USA. Swiss people don't talk with strangers unless they have to. Swiss people have their 3-4 friends and that's it. If they want to make a new friend, it will take time. Here in the states, every stranger talks to you and that's sometimes just too much for me (because it just feels sketchy) and to add to that, having friends after just two weeks feels wrong honestly… because it feels like they're just faking the friendship. To the weather part, yes, it is rainy/snowy in Switzerland in winter. However, I'd suggest you, if you move back to Switzerland at some point, to move closer to the mountains (like Obwalden/Nidwalden). First of all it's beautiful in Winter (a lot of snow) and it's not that rainy. Also, I wouldn't say that swiss people are unhappy but Switzerland is a performance orientated country for sure. What a lot people do after work is to get a beer with some friends or to do a sport (skiing on weekends, tennis, soccer, rowing, biking etc). I'm sorry that it hit you in that way. But you seem like a nice person. I'd love to get to know you better once you're back in Switzerland. So you'd have a friend base to start with ;)
I'm originally from Los Angeles. In fact, im here now visiting family. My theory is that if your essential basic needs are met, you have food, companionship and somewhere safe to live, you should be happy and going somewhere else because the grass is always greener on the other side is not actually going to make you happy until you find out what you really need to make yourself happy. But it seems to me that your not having your needs met with companionship. Do you miss your parents too? It must be really hard being there all alone.
Im not a doctor but it seems like a winter depression to me, alot of ppl get that in switzerland because they go to work when its dark and come home when its dark again. I had a hard time getting used to that and hated it during winter. You are young and have a lot of time to experience alot of diffrent things, if you feel like leaveing switzerland you should definitly do that. If ppl tell you to suck it up, you should allways remember that decisions about your live affect you first and foremost. Maybe you can look back in a few years and smile about your decision. Anyway i hope you enjoyed your stay and i wish you good luck on your journey, where ever it takes you.
Please wait til summertime and travel to Italy and the south of France! It is so so beautiful and so nice and warm! Wait til summer! It will be warmer soon!
Absolutely don't think you are ungrateful or anything like that, but you just need a little more time. You are beautiful and outgoing and so intelligent you just need some time. And it's getting warmer soon!!!
And it sounds crazy that the weather is what makes people happy go jolly. I'm happy just because I get to have life again for everyday that I wake up and hell I live in Chicago where the weather sucks because it's bipolar but that's not going to change my mood everyday until another season approaches.. I mean good lord but like I said wishing nothing but happiness for you
I'm a swiss citizien and I have to say: most of us are assho*** especially the older generation. Also it's so super quite and consverative, new things are taking reeeeally long to appear. I think it's so hard for foreigner to make friends with swiss people, because you appear weird if you talk all of a sudden with one haha If I finished my Masters Degree I will move to another country :D :D Not everything is shiny here lol
There is nothing “ungrateful “ about you feeling like it’s not for you. You do what makes you happy. It’s about you loving your life and what you do with it. How did you get there? You saved up packed one suitcase and left. If you feel you need to do it again go for it Leah go where ever you want to go doesn’t have to be the states. Take care of you Hun.
6 лет назад+4
Hello Leon, my channel is in Portuguese so unfortunately you will not understand what I say in my videos, in case you decide to check it out. Anyway, I recently got to know your channel and this is the second video I am seeing of you. You live here for such a short time and I am here for almost 10 years. Came here to work, am here until today. I kind of started to cry watching you saying EVERYTHING I felt like throughout these years living here. I am from Brazil by the way. The go to work-go to home thing, the spontaneous talk and the weather... my God, you killed me with your words reminding me of how I was when I got here. As some people said in the comments, I think Switzerland makes you more mature, I did. Or maybe I had to. Sorry for the long comment but I just wanted to say that dont give up, I still didnt watch the video of why you are here, but whatever reason it is, make it up to it. Life here is worth it, we grow up and we change, we understand so much more after some years. I cannot explain in this comment but I just hope you trust my words and pass your time in a good way so that you can get to the time when you enjoy CH some more. Hugs. Liana
Why shouldn't she give up when the experience is not beneffitting her? It's very annoying how people think they can influence other people's experience. Stop forcing other people to accept your views. She's not the first person to feel unhappy in Switzerland. There are many who share her sentiments.
Follow your heart! As you said, you are still young and this is in part the beauty of our youth: being able to experience new countries, new emotions, new perspectives. Voicing your unhappiness at this point in your life is not being "ungrateful," but being honest with yourself. Part of the privilige that comes with being an educated young woman is the agency and financial security that allows you, and you alone, to dictate where you choose to live. I pray that God leads you to where He wants you to be. I wish you nothing but the best!
If i were you, I would start researching now other places to visit, save your money, then leave there. Life is too short to settle when you not happy. The good thing is you can always say you had the chance to experience your parents birth country and use that for memories with photos you can cherish. Good luck to you.
Don't let people make you feel bad for feeling the way you do. You are going to have good days and you are going to have bad days in the end is your life and your decision. Much love
Wait for spring and summer to come! Winter sucks here and I’m born here looooooooong time ago and know what I’m talking about. Summertime is much better and people are much more open. Maybe you need to move to Züri! Basel would make me depressed as well.
Summertime is the time where you meet new people naturally and more frequent than in winter. Good luck! Check this out ruclips.net/video/WCSQwPv6Z-k/видео.html
Switzerland is a beautiful country but I think it’s true when the say the people make the country.people out there won’t say hello or anything so I can imagine how lonely it gets.
I m from Geneva and I pretend to move to another country. I don’t like Switzerland for the same reasons you mentioned. Even if I have some closed friends here. I want to meet silly people 😂
Context: I've lived all over the U.S. and the world. The only two places I lived that I didn't like were places you might not expect: Louisville, KY and San Diego, CA. Louisville is actually beautiful, but incredibly insular and, hence, culturally "cold"--"cold" being something you don't expect in the South. San Diego seems to have some of the most shockingly and consistently hateful and impolite people I've ever met, and a local culture that I just didn't "get." By contrast, once upon a time, I never thought I'd like the L.A. area. But, lo and behold, I loved living there--not as a forever home, but as an interesting city truly unlike any other in the world, and with surprisingly friendly enough people. L.A. is dirty, though. I had some friends, but mostly acquaintances (such is life, really). Nevertheless, I just felt alive there. At this time, I'm bouncing back and forth between Australia and New Zealand. Australia has a lot to like, and the people are generally well-meaning, but it doesn't exactly pull my heartstrings, either. My reaction is generally one of, "blah." New Zealand, on the other hand, has been so easy for me to just flat-out fall in love with. NZ feels like Middle Earth, and like a giant small town. Go where you feel comfortable. I'd love to visit Switzerland and I'm sure it's a fabulous country in many respects, but, if it isn't for you, then it isn't. And, Switzerland, while not being in the EU, is still part of the EEA and the Schengen Zone, so perhaps you could try living in Italy or France or Denmark or someplace like that... (If you choose to stay in CH, though, good luck.)
Hey Lea. You have done something that most don't do by stepping outside of your comfort zone. You came, you conquered, now it's time to go. Move on to your next adventure knowing that you did something amazing! I for one, could not live in a place like Switzerland, it seems way to bland, and that whole no sun thing...nah! I am excited to see where you'll take us next!
Thank you all for all of the support! It really warms my heart and makes me feel more confident with my decision. :) I'm still working on a plan to leave. I'll keep you posted. My channel will still be open and active! 😉
It's not "giving up so easily". And I have had much more difficult situations hit me. You don't know my life. I've fought through every single situation. You must think it's okay to settle. Why settle? I have many options. I'm young, single, have no kids. I can roam the world until I find a place that feels like home. There is absolutely nothing entitled or "american" about that. It's also not about people disliking me... I don't think you listened to my video at all. it's about me not being HAPPY. Life is short. Why don't people understand this. I could literally die any day and I want to live as many days as I can with happiness in a place I love. My happiness is what is most important.
I don't see it as her giving up necessarily. She has said she would revisit but perhaps now is not the time for her to be in Switzerland. She isn't entitled she's finding it challenging to adjust from what I can tell.
hey leontyne; I´ll be tomorrow in weil am Rhein in the evening after class, are you ganna be in rhein or in basel around the evening ?!:-)
You went and you’ve experienced it & learned what you do and don’t want in an environment that you want to reside in. It’s ok if you want to make a change. Don’t stay stuck in a place you don’t want to be in you’re still young. Too many people do that. Do you girl!!! Good luck finding your happy place🙂
Léontyne please follow your heart and life is too short to be unhappy. Much love to you
You are absolutely right! I dream to leave Switzerland and move to Cambodia a country I visited several time and I really ❤️ it. I am a Swiss woman living in the french part of the country. People are cold in Switzerland, I feel a lot of negativity. People do not know smiling. It is difficult to have friends even for me.
I traveled a lot around the world and every time I return to Switzerland I feel like a stranger. Agressivity, selfishness are a major problem for me. I feel more at home abroad. Staying in my country makes me more sad and depressed. I am sad to speak about Switzerland like that but I know that many expats complain that Switzerland is an unfriendly country and I completely agree. When you are an open minded person Switzerland is not a country for you. People here are never grateful.
You are NOT alone. I feel the same way in Switzerland and decided to leave. Its just not worth it.
I just spent a week in Basel. My husband was there for business. It happened to be Fasnacht. I noticed Swiss people are very reserved, very quiet. Even with this huge celebration for 3 days I didn't see any dancing, any kind of shenanigans you'd typically see with these types of celebrations. Kind of somber. It was beautiful but I can see being depressed there.
Please note that as a Black person, our perception will be different compared to anyone else. Follow your heart and do you!
yup VERY important. A black persons perspective ould be completely different and sometimes worst than others. I went to school in a small town mostly white to concertrate on studies. once i graduate this may am moving to texas/Atlanta where i could live happy with a sense of community and make friends of my kind. Just a preference i choose for myself
Dana Banks Very true!
But that‘s a racist thing to say. Do you say black people are different based on the color of their skin?
@@Ivo3963 It is racist to say that Black people should not feel differently due to racism against black people in particular. Not everyone thinks like you do.
I’m half swiss, born and raised in Switzerland. I experienced all those subtleties from Kindergarden on pretty much. They do not like foreigners there. I moved away as soon as I was done with studies. Still haven’t found a “home” but I’m not giving up just yet. It‘s difficult to explain to people who have never lived there, they don‘t usually believe it.
magaliep34 I’m glad you left! I did as well. It’s not a happy place for anyone who isn’t full swiss. I hope you find home soon
try norway denmark or newzealand
@@madhurshinde4988 No sorry but those countries are really boring
I know exactly what she means! Moral of the story..do not believe everything you read online! She is spot n folks..just go and experience for yourselves. Some of the people think they are better than you...I had an old lady steer me down when. Got on the train and sat opposite her...she did not crack a smile! Switzerland is not that great a place as they have rated. PERIOD! A lot of them get jobs in USA or Caribbean banks, just because of their language and they never want to move back to their country, because what they thought was great in Switzerland was better elsewhere. I agree they are cold people,,snooty....think they are better, but you take nothing with you when you die..just be nice, no matter what!
Thank you very much for making this honest video! I've lived in the German part of Switzerland for one and half years, and it was pretty traumatizing. Especially the racism and the part of not being able to be yourself was hard for me. You have all my sympathy, and I cross my fingers for you that you can leave soon 💖
Hey Sistah.. follow your heart and bounce.. I'm sure most of your viewers have noticed that you didn't seem happy there (I know I did), and was straining to find reasons to stick with it.. You are Smart, Beautiful and have the right to be Happy Everyday! The whole world is your stomping ground. Come home to USA, or find another Adventure in another Country where Racism isn't a major factor. You'll make the right decision either way.
Time to go. I just started watching your channel. Six months is plenty. You've learned stuff, met people and traveled a bit. Travel more or come back to the States...hey check out China! Im not kidding...as stated...you're young, smart and courageous. Big world! See more of it!!
CheavorTV Preach!
Yes, leave. Follow your intuition.
You gave it an honest try! Don't feel bad about it. You have this huge world to explore! I'm proud of you!! Come on back home!!
Come on men...racism isn't an issue here.
Normally, i try to not comment about such stuff but as a swiss who loves his country, i feel very insulted by what you assume. I guess you are from the US. The country who has white supremacists openly demonstrating on the streets, who currently builds a wall towards Mexico, who has a police brutality problem towards black people, who voted for Donald Trump (i cannot judge him as a President but i can judge him for what he says, does and tweets and boy, that is some bad racist stuff sometimes). But despite all that, i think the majority of americans are good and great people. Not racists.
It would be naive and dangerous to believe that our society (all arround the world) has not to deal with racism. But to judge a whole country just on a small percentage of people isn't good.
I have a japanese wife. She lives here with me for several years now and she never encountered any problematic form of racism.
After all, as far as i understood Leah, that is not the reason why she has the feeling to leave.
I live in Italy near Switzerland, lately I go frequently to Swisstzerland because I am looking for a job, and to me people seems depressed as well! When I am in Italian stations people talk and laugh, then in Swiss stations all people are just silent and look at their phones, no one even smile 🤷🏻♀️ but I love the fact that they are usually kind people, and maybe shy, like me lol
I was living in Switzerland for 12 years it’s very density and boring 😕
As an American in the airline business, I have visited Switerzland countless times over decades, and have many friends there. While I love it immensely, I would find it very difficult for Americans to settle there, fully assimilate, and truly be happy. The culture is far too different. If you grew up there, I am certain it would be far different.
American friends have experienced occasional discrimination in the Zurich region just because they are not Swiss., and that is why I really prefer Swiss Romande or Ticino. Perhaps you should try moving there first.
The poor weather with the little sun is a severe problem for many residents except in the Ticino. Being a native of California, forget it! If you can't fit into the cultural landscape it would make things even much more challenging.
I give you plenty of kudos for trying, but I would like you to come back to America. We need smart, intelligent, hard-working, and adventurous young people, like you. Come back home, lovely lady!
"While I love it immensely, I would find it very difficult for Americans to settle there, fully assimilate, and truly be happy. "
You are lying to yourself and everyone else.
@@zurechtweiser No, Swiss German people are the WORST to deal with. She is absolutely right. Germans for example are much more inclusive and friendly. I prefer Germany or Spain over Switzerland 100 %. They are welcoming and open and allow you to be yourself. Its just facts.
It's VERY rare that I reach out to people, but I felt the need. I HATE being cold and for the most part any type of bad weather which is why I moved to HCMC. If you are still open to living abroad I HIGHLY recommend living in Vietnam! I am madly in love with Saigon. YES it has its cons, but the pros out weighed the cons for me. Not a day goes by that I dont think about Ho Chi Minh. In my opinion its the best kept secret when it comes to living abroad. There is something going on EVERYDAY!!! Free Cocktails flowing at night (HCMC has the best ladies nights) There is a coffee shop every 100 feet, they are everywhere lol. There is also a great expat support group of friends B.I.S. (Black in Saigon) Hope this helps :)
Thanks for reaching out! I will definitely try Vietnam. I have yet to go to asia. It intimidates me honestly but maybe now is the time. Thanks for the support :)
I will give you a huge round of applause if you can tell me who Ho chi Minh was?
You don’t need to explain yourself or your feelings. Follow your gut and heart. You came, you saw, you did well...move on. Best of luck to you.
Wanderlust Lexi I agree
Wanderlust Lexi Exactly! There is nothing wrong with changing your mind. I went to Switzerland in my 20's and didn't find the people to be very friendly. No shame in going home.
Follow your heart hun. From my experience...I am living in Geneva (which I love) and it is the city which attracts a lot of internationals, which gives one the opportunity to meet a lot of personalities. Still with that being said, I am still having to get use to a toned down lifestyle in terms of the nightlife (nightlife exists but more mellow compared to parts of the USA/UK), shops closing early etc. I had visited another part of Switzerland before deciding on GE, and the vibe did not sit with me hence why I chose GE. Everyone deserves happiness, so don't just settle. Switzerland will always be here.
If you're not happy then you should leave...point blank. I just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and was very interested to see your experience. I had a grandaunt who married and moved there from The Bahamas but she was very distant from her family and so I was always curious about life there. Thank you for sharing all of this. I will not stigmatize the place as "racist" but only we know the struggle. Blessings on your decisions moving forward. Ase.
Thank you! :)
Honey, what you experience is simply culture shock. First there's the honeymoon phase then you go through a phase where you see everything negative as you're dealing with settling in. This will happen to you everywhere foreign you go. Either you are though enough to fight through it or you aren't. If you arent, by all means: you should't force yourself to do it, HOWEVER: if you give up too easily, you might regret it later on in your life. So my advice would be to hang on just a little bit longer and see again how its going once spring has properly arrived.
Agree. She's experiencing culture shock.
double agree! I lived in 8 different countries, and you can't expect everything the same as where you used to. so don't compare and just live as the locals.
Right but I don't want to live as the locals do here. That's the thing. I don't like the coldness, the closed mindedness, the strictness, everything.... It's not for me. So why should I settle and live as they do?
I think you should get a boyfriend who can show you around and help you with the transition and then you'd be able to enjoy your time here more. Try Parship - that's where I met my husband.
I didn't mean that, you should still be you and keep the values you treasure. What I mean is the lifestyle definitely changes from culture to culture, from country to country. If you have a choice, choose a place which fits your lifestyle. Many people don't have the choice. But one thing is common across all, there is no other place exactly like where you used to live, so there will always be some differences. And if those differences are ok for you to accept, then you need to adapt to it. Before you can change the environment, try to look at the positive sides, at least you won't feel miserable, and negative feels can be amplified if you only focus on the negative points. I once for work lived in one of the world's poorest country and there is also warzone there. There is nothing there even personal safety is at stake. I was very unhappy at the beginning, but then I focused on what makes be happy. And I tried to look at positive things in my life. I think it can help you feel better before you change the environment.
Hi there, I have been in Swiss for approx 9 months right now and I totally agree with you. Honestly, Swiss is not for me either. People here seems depressed and disconnected from each other. They are so systematic in their ways and always on “Swiss time” as they call it. Most people are friendly on outwards though but it’s very hard to connect to Swiss people.
Leontyne, I have an interesting question for you. I'm an American who've been living in a different land for about 8 years now. It seems as if Switzerland is a place as you said, not the place for you at this time in your life, but here's the question. What did you bring to Switzerland? What kind of work do you do? What kind of feelings do you offer the people of Switzerland? Example: I'm a black man whom happens to be an instructor of Argentine Tango. I've started schools here where I am, but the key is that I teach the art in a very different way. I teach it from the inside-out, as a feeling not just a dance. People where I am never looked at dance the way I teach it. I'll tell you that it is a former Soviet Country where people are NOT use to making contact with other humans in a deep way. It has been a wonderful learning experience for both them and myself. I guess the real question would be "Who are you"? I've found that it's not that you expose things to people, but how we do it. I had to do some research on the land to understand how the people got to be the way they are first in order to find an approach to show them something different. I'd like to chat further if you'd like, because you seem to be a little frustrated about this and I thought sharing my experience could help in some way. All the best.
I like the way your videos are always from the heart. You are right though, Switzerland is not for everybody, especially if you are of the outgoing personality you have just described. The Swiss like order, peace of mind and neatness. Probably you should have done a really thorough research before moving here. But then again in your video that you sent your resignation letter to your boss in US, you were still giving reasons why you were unhappy in America. Which makes me think you could be looking for something out of life that does not exist. Anyway follow your heart and whatever you do may you find joy.
Why research? Her parents are Swiss. And if you dont go you never know, so now she knows, wheres the problem? Its just her opinion, doesnt have to agree with yours. I dont like your passive aggressive tone in your comment. "Which makes me think you could be looking for something out of life that does not exist." Well, what if she didnt find her place yet? The world is big and not only America or Switzerland. There are tons of beautiful places for her left over.
Yes get out if your not happy love. Life is to short to stay some where your not happy.. your beautiful smart young live your best life you deserve it..💜💙💚💛❤💞
Lea
It’s only been 6 months,
You are still very young... give yourself the opportunity to see all the surrounding countries in the meantime.
Yes... I can see you are a happy bubbly person... and that’s just beautiful.
You really will be okay... are you missing your friends and family from your home town?
You have said you are too loud ... too this and that ...Could you be wrong?
Those aren’t really such bad qualities.
This is a great opportunity that may or may not repeat itself in a lifetime.
Sometimes it’s not loneliness but alone- ness.
I think we all are looking on and sympathize and even validate your feelings.
Just know you’re loved... not really truly alone and give yourself the time to make the right choice... some of us have never given ourselves that introspect and have gone in search of the elusive something that was not somewhere else but within us.
We love you darling.
At least you gave it a try!! Proud of you beauty!!
Yoyo Smiles me2
BAIL!!!! LEAVE GIRL LEAVE! You gave it a try and that is what counts. Life is way to short. Once you become a fully functioning adult, you can not go along just to get along. You set up your life the way you want to live, not the way you want to just "get by". If you look around and you don't like it, no matter if its a person, place or thing.....change it! You have such a sweet spirit about you, don't ignore your intuition. Don't let a place turn any of that bubbly personality into flat soda lol. If you feel its time to go, then you go. You need to be by sunshine and water! Best of luck and many blessings to whatever you decide and where ever in the world your heart takes you.
It is obvious that Switzerland isn't your spiritual home. You are a warm and vital person and should find a place to match your spirit. Have you considered Latin America, specifically Panama? I lived there years ago and I keep going back. The locals are warm and kind and the life can be as simple or as grand as you desire. Like Florida, there are many, many miles of beaches. Like you said, every place has its pros and cons. Because I love Panama, I can deal with the cons. There is the tiny town of Boquete in the central mountainous region of the country. Some people call it the little Switzerland of Central America. That is a bit of a stretch, but it is gorgeous and green year round. BTW, I am visiting Switzerland next week for an alumni gathering. I just thought it was time to break the Latin America routine for a change. I wish you the best of luck in your travels.
Do what you think you will be happy with. Many people come to CH because good salaries but they sacrifice many things, friends, family, better weather, way of living they are used to etc. As swiss national you can live and work in any EU country, maybe more sunny countries would suites you better. Spain for example or Italy. They are more friendly, open minded, easy going. You said that you would like to live near the shore, consider Spain. Try different places, cities, countries, explore. You are young. You can go back home anytime. I wish you all the best :) Hope to see more videos from you, wherever you are :)
Have you looked at the Italian economy?
Italy??? If you really want to experience racism, go there!
Lol, Just look at their economies mate. You're faar better of in the US, than on those countries.
Switzerland may be best once you've traveled + aged/matured + retired! You'll always have dual citizenship! I send you Well wishes!
her parents are Swiss but she grew up in the states
Leo Brockmann are you girl or boy? Your name is mannish but pic with blond girl.
Bob Bob you said she internalized racism ? I don't call it internalized , when one of the locals spat on her, simply because of the color of her skin. Maybe you did not see that video.
Sharon ! Racism is everywhere unfortunately A non black person is taking their life into their own areas entering certain predominantly 'black areas' for example..
There isn't one place in existence that doesn't have degrees of racism, unfortunately so.
Spitting on someone is disgusting and should be a chargeable offence. Im sorry she experienced that.
It is definitely best for retired people. Everything is geared towards them. They hate young people.
All of Switzerland is in a rut, that's why I left
As a Swiss guy living in Basel (which I really love) I really appreciate videos like yours: they show how CH is not the paradise country most of people think it is. Thus I also found a lot of the cons you talk about by moving to Basel from the Italian part which I am from. I feel extremely sorry about the racism experiences you had. I think xenophobia is really becoming a serious problem here, even though Basel is an open-minded island compared to where I am from.
Hope everything is going to be fine for you 😉
Being in a foreign country for an extended period of time can be incredibly hard especially depending on where you are coming from. You know you better than anyone else can know you and if you are sick of it, you are sick of it. One should never question their feeling and it is great that you have come to this realization now before having spent many years there.
I feel you girl ! I lived for 15 years in Switzerland and I was never happy , even tho it’s a beautiful place I just don’t feel like living there ! I did everything to move to America . Stay strong ❤️
Wow 15 years! I don't know how you survived love.
Damn. 15yrs. I think its the scenery and landscape that sells people. people dont do enough research on the actual experiences with the people of the country which is probably the most important thing
Sounds very similar to the _Seattle Freeze_ where people don't want to build new relationships, because they already have their friends.
And Seattle has almost constant grey and drizzly skies, and depression is significantly higher there.
girl the friends thing is everywhere. I feel you...Living in Germany and dealing with the same thing
Mannnn I think this might just be a Europe thing! 😩😩😩 it’s crazy
@@LeahhhLux try to go to South of Italy and then to Germany and you'll see that each country in Europe is totally different under this point of view :D
You remembered me a Swiss guy that got in love with Mexico that have a channel in spanish and told something like the right country to be is where you feel happy. He choses to stay in Mexico. So I remember a Venezuelan guy that first emigrate to Uruguay, and then to Portugal, but didn't felt good in Portugal and wanted to came back Uruguay (I'm from here), and say something similar to the swiss, that the economy is not all, if you don't feel happy.
So, hope you find the place in the world that makes you happy.
Honey you don’t have to justify anything to anyone. You can’t stay in a place where you can’t be yourself! This was great experience for you but “guess what” this is not the place for you. No harm done, you are young and resilient this is the time to try new things. If you want to go home...go home. Maybe you can try some other place later on. I’ll be here waiting for the videos of your next adventure. Hugs
I moved to Geneva in 2015 and they do have drinks during the week. The only thing is, it depends on who you're going with. People with kids are not gonna be so keen to do that.
I guess it depends where you work and who are your friends.
Swiss people are bit closed but once they open up to you they become amazing friends!
And it's true, people are happier in Summer.
I never had a girlfriend in 25 years Switzerland nor dates ! That says it all, I left !! , in the meantime I had 2 girlfriend abroad...
I agree with you! Switzerland is just a weird country!
Girl I hope you find your happy place! Sounds to me like UK would be your place because the weather isn’t that bad, people are open minded and outspoken. It’s an amazing place
UK to me is far better than Switzerland.
the weather isn’t bad in the UK? excuse me what?😂
Come back to USA, but keep traveling abroad. Always remember friends are hard to find. You will have a lot of associates more to hang out with then friends. So if you find a friend or two you are blessed. Do what’s best for you and enjoy your journey threw this life. ☺️
It depends on your stage of life and what you need now. When I was your age, I lived in NYC and loved it. Now we have two young children and Switzerland is a great place for their childhood and family lifestyle. And we love winter and skiing ⛷.
1. go shopping on Fridays and you will have more time on weekends.XD
2. People are not just happy in the summer; the weather does not have to be warm or people do not have to smile to be happy.
3. Being too friendly towards strangers without reason is seen as having a bad ulterior motive; there are times, situations and places where it is not: you may talk to someone about your and their love of books and reading when at the bookstore, start friendships at football matches, talk about political stuff in a pub(same goes for any kind of sport-stuff), go to events that interest you, etc., etc..
Don't just go and say "I like your shirt" to someone in public, but say something like "I like your skateboard (or something else the person you want to talk to obviously likes), do you know a good skating spot somewhere?", orwhatever.
Show interest in them personally and not just in what they are wearing(except if that IS their hobbyXD).
I have not really experienced the "difficult" part in finding new friends in Switzerland, that you described; just be friendly and somewhat persistent and they will open up on their own faster than you think.
Someone once said to me: "Gaining a Swiss friend is gaining a friend for life. It may be a little more difficult to gain swiss person's friendship but it is worth it."
PS. isn't this situation somewhat like the dating situation of every man?: You ask 10 women out and at most 2/3rds(if not less) are interested in you?-_-
Girl... I'm a turkish-german person from Germany planning on moving down to Switzerland. I would have LOVED YOU! I can't get along with cold ass german people too! I am dorky, goofy and bubbly, colourful and will talk my truth! In which city have you been in Switzerland? Maybe people are different in Basel... At least I hope so :D I also thought about moving to Chicago but the US scares me. Or Australia! I want to LIVE! Idealistically with a caring community around me! Not just work and get sour at home...
Lol.. And you think the Swiss are any friendlier or less cold than the Germans?
I'm from Chicago (I live in the EU now) and it's mostly media hype. It's a nice city, you just have to watch where you go in certain neighborhoods, but I've seen the same in France, UK and Germany. I'll be back to the US one day.
@@mellyklint6199 no but at least I would be surrounded by amazing nature and would earn more!
I understand I have traveled and lived abroad, and if you feel that way you should go home. It is not a point of being ungrateful it is the point of being comfortable if you are not comfortable and happy then it is time to leave. So hold your head up and know that it is okay the way you feel. Take care I enjoy your channel.
I totally understand you. Born and raised in Switzerland. Yes, many people are unhappy here. Go where you find your happiness. Let people comment and judge, they will anyway. It's your life not theirs. Where are you now?
Sorry to hear that. I felt similarly about Australia. Then I moved to Switzerland and I absolutely loved it. Hope you find a great place that suits you soon 😊
Danica Christin Depends where in Australia. Some areas are beautiful and a joy to be in.; other places are depressing and horrible. I found the same in UK and US.
Danica Christin Australia has a lot of sun ☀️ She needs to grow up and comparing and learn to find❣️ This whole complaining is childish that she is not aware of in herself❣️💜💔💜❣️
6 MONTH of not being Psudo Middle point Off TAP❣️💔😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂💔❣️
I am in Zurich and i'm very unhappy as well I felt like a zambi I have never in my life experience depression until I came here. On weekends all I think about is to find away out like go back to the Caribbean trust mi.
awwwww. :( I'm sorry!! It's really really hard here.
Hello dear... I've been living in Geneva for almost 3 years now, and I feel absolutely the same way you do!! Thinking quite a lot about the future, what's the next step in my life... but well, you know what in the end it's all worth it right? Living and learning, that's for sure. I hope you find the right path, and maybe, who knows we'll meet up someday :)
Weather sucks. Seasonal depression..Real!..very expensive and you will never get a chance to buy your own home...it’s like we allow governments worldwide to tax us to low standard of living. Time for citizens world wide to take a stance against tax extortion...people have a right to happiness without struggling to make ends meet.
I am super proud of you! You hold your head up! If you need to go, go. Many young women never move outside of their comfort zone. Discrimination is very depressing. Cold,grey weather is depressing. Go somewhere that you can thrive and live well.
I hear you on all these points. Yes, winter is long and sad and the mood here reflects this. It's going to get so much better now that spring is here. But you're right, do we really want to live somewhere where people are depressed for 6 months out of the year??? I ask myself this all the time.
I wish you could find more friends to hang out with on the weekends. I'm here with my kids and husband, so that helps. I agree, Switzerland might be a better place for you when you have a family. We moved here when my first child was 1 and it was perfect because Switzerland is so great for families, so safe, so many great activities for kids. But my single friends find it much harder.
My main tip for surviving winter here is to be as active as possible. My life really improved here when I started getting to the mountains almost every weekend during winter to snowboard and do winter walks. Getting above the clouds and being active during winter helps my mood tremendously. Also, I try to cram in as much fun in summer, so by the time winter comes along, I appreciate a little hibernation time to relax and catch up on projects at home.
I also agree it's hard to find a community where you can be your loud happy self. Luckily, I live in a neighborhood where we have lots of expats from other open, friendly countries so I'm not the only loud one.
Wishing you happy times to come and hoping you can at least enjoy spring and summer here, which is amazing. If you like to hike, I have a few of my favorites from last summer that I can share.
Dear Léontyne,
I am Swiss so I really understand what you're trying to express...
First of all, I am really sorry that your experience in Switzerland has not been as you might had expected. Well, there is not much you can do about the weather... The weather in Switzerland is like in London..(winter = long, cold and rainy) except that we really have snow here. And it really influences the mood of a lot of people. You are right.. it is not that easy to meet new people as a foreigner in CH.. and to be honest Basel is not really the city where the most clubs and bars are.. therefore, it attracts different types of people.. your experience in cities like Geneva and Zurich would have been completely different...
You should really follow your guts.. but please, take time of and get to know other cities as well.. it's worth it!
Hello sweetworld123 . Vinay here from India. Would like to have a word with you if you don't mind ☺️
I hear the same song from just about every black person who has lived there 😰😱. I visited for a week & a 3 days were enough. Racism thick & runs deep...
Hello,
Well first of all I'm really sorry that Switzerland did not turn out as you would have liked.
I lived in Zürich for almost 10 years and to be honest I really can't say anything negative.
It's all about understanding Swiss people to be honest, the language and the culture. For example I speak swiss-german and always noticed how other African Americans were having a very hard time fitting in. In my opinion the Swiss are keeping away from African Americans because of all the negative, crude and violent behaviour. I'm aware that it's not just us ...but the colour of our skin places us at the center of attention so anything negative from automatically gets amplified. I really hope you find happiness, a place where you feel welcome and can call HOME
You are human,a nd not your color, if Swiss classify you into black white or whatever and then judge you based on your color, you are not surrounded by good people. The most violent serial killers in the U.S have been white men. You are generalizing so much in your comment, you fit well into the Swiss society.
You may need to get something like the Philips EnergyLight for the darkness in the Winter. Also do get your vitamin D level checked. Winter is hard and when it's over a lot of people get Frühjahrsmüdigkeit, which is not to be taken lightly. I think that you're going through culture shock as well, though. It may help to get involved in the local activities in the Winter like going skiing and participating in Fasching/Fastnacht/Carnival, Guggenmusik, attending sports events like Volleyball or Handball; or in fall there are Fairs/Chilbi/Olma, etc. There should be some Easter markets and other related activities soon and of course when Summer comes there are all the open air music festivals and you can go to your local Badi, go biking, hiking, etc.
I think it was easier for me because I had already lived in Germany for a number of years and could speak German very well and I instantaneously found everything about Switzerland better than Germany. I also haven't experienced any racism at all in almost 2 years. Additionally, my family is here and my son is involved in all sorts of activities at school, church and the music school, so that gets us out and about quite a lot. Good luck.
where in switzerland do you live?
I live in Kanton Thurgau right on the Bodensee and work in Kanton St. Gallen, both in small towns.
Hello miss. Vinay here from India. Would like to have a word with you if you don't mind ☺️
Girl... I FEEL YOU!!!! I've been trying to survive Germany/Switzerland for over 3 years now. I have no idea how I've done it. I would totally move tomorrow if I could.
:( That's crazy! I couldn't imagine being here for that long!
I'm really sorry to hear that :( I do understand that making friends in Switzerland is difficult... what excactly is the reason you don't like it here? You don't need to tell me if you don't want to but i'm very interested
Have u done the black people meet up as I've seen a few of the other countries like France and Netherlands... It's important to establish community... I'm not saying only hold to black... Do it with other groups but you can start with the other black RUclipsrs that are vlogging abroad honey bunny... Just a suggestion even for the next place you try out.
Switzerland isn’t the United States! Your expecting it to be the same. The culture is different. They are not as open. Have you tried making friends the Switzerland way? Just because people don’t smile all the time the way we do doesn’t mean they are unhappy. Your problem is you want Switzerland to conform to you and not the other way around.
We are not as 'open'? Look, the people in the US I consider to be pretty fake. At least we are pure and not faking anything here for you just to make you feel cozy and warm. Earn it or cry silently.
@@Zaitekno thats cold bruh xD it is always nice to smile
Typically American is always a big mouth and want to Americanize the whole world with McDonald and burgers and very noisy .
Sounds like more pale excuses for white racism
I'm Swiss and lived in Switzerland my whole life but I do struggle with some of the things you mentioned as well. I was bullied in school so I don't really have friends left from that time. But since it's true that almost everybody has their friend groups from grade school and so on, I also struggle with finding friends. I do have friends from university or from going out but none of them are really close friends and I really do miss that. I just don't know how to go from lose friends to close friends, it seems almost impossible. Furthermore, I also struggle with the weather, the winter is really long and it's making me depressed. But I just don't know it any other way, so I don't really think about it much... But I guess I would be happier overall in a place with more sun.
Hear me out. You need to come to Spain. Sun and drinks galore. I'll give you tips about moving here, and you'll give me tips about moving there. Done deal.
I would recommend Spain more for visiting than living. You might encounter the same problem in trying to make friends. Most Spainards have the same friends since childhood and aren't really open to making new ones. (Speaking from alot of experience)
Be proud of your journey and growth. You have done well to be so young. If 6 months abroad is enough for you, move on. You are already a winner no matter your choice. Do what makes you happy!
Racism is really an issue in Switzerland. I think, Switzerland is only a good place for you, if you are SWISS, WHITE and very RICH. I say that based on my personal experience as a Finnish person in Switzerland. You are very brave to make this video, wish you all the best!
It’s kind of true but it’s slowly changing for better actually.
I lived and worked in Switzerland for six months. I was very very ready to leave. I felt the same as you do...the cons just outweighed the pros. Beautiful place, loved the history - but - everything you said resonated with me.
I wouldn’t characterize you as being ungrateful or negative. In fact, I think that you have been kind in your description of Switzerland. When I was in Lucerne I found it to be like a bright, shiny diamond...pretty but cold. You are too effervescent to live there. I noticed that you were a little “hard” the last video. You actually seemed sad to me, and I felt so bad for you. I think people who follow you really like your personality, so I for one want you to be happy wherever that is. Go explore and discover. Find your place in this great big world. I’m rooting for you!😉🌸
Hi there, I am bethel please can I chat with you, I'm moving to Lucerne as a student this September and I was wondering if I can ask some questions about Lucerne in general and the best way to find accomodation and jobs
@@bethelanyaogu7551 , Hi Bethel, that’s great! I don’t think that I am the best person to advise you only because I was there on vacation. I would want to be fair to Lucerne and to you. It’s very beautiful there. I wish you well 🥰
Hi sis i am sorry about your bad experience in Switzerland. Everything happens for a reason. Be strong. You may consider Japan as another destination if you still wants to live abroad. Many foreign expats live happily here and earning decent living. I am coming to Switzerland on business trip for a week in early may. Would be great to meet you!
I KNEW this is how you would feel because you remind me of myself and I WOULD FEEL THE EXACT SAME WAY! lol You lasted longer than what I would have though. I say GO! Switzerland sounds Beautiful and Depressing.
I remember two years ago i went to Viena, Austria to study for a year and for the most part it was a great experience but at the end of the year i was so done with it that i wanted to go back to my home country. I get what you feel. There's no other place like home.
I went through something similar when I moved to South Florida in 1990, for five years. Places closed early. I didn't know anybody...there was no way to make new friends... all I did was work and go home. I ended up selling the business that I bought after owning it for 5 years....turned a good profit on it and RAN back home to New England! Switzerland like many other countries sounds nice on paper I think...lol..Maybe it was too high up on a pedestal for you? I would leave Switzerland to go to south of France hang out there before I come back to America... try some other countries and see what it's like. I'd have to be in a little bit better weather.. I like the cold weather but I couldn't stand it for 10 months. Good luck to you & greetings from Boston!
☘⚘☘
Mass Lass I felt the same way living in Miami and moved to Georgia 3 years ago because I never like it!
You should really just go wherever you want to and do what makes you happy. 😉
A German comedian once said that you can also suffer from depression, even if you're living in a villa at Lac Léman/Lake Geneva. And I think that's absolutely true, there are things more important than wealth and beautiful landscapes.
For the wheather part, I can confirm that Switzerland pretty much sucks in winter, unless you go skiing/snowboarding. (Because unless you're in the mountains it's not really a fairytale land in winter, I like the summer much more.) When you're high up in the mountains the wheather is usually great, meaning blue sky and sunshine. But of course it's not cheap nor really enjoyable when you're doing it alone. I also think Swiss people really are grumpier or even more anti social (in the sense that there's less going on in winter) in winter because of the wheather. But that would not be entirely our fault now would it? ^^ I'd say the mood of most people changes if they don't see the sun for several days.
Also Swiss summer is more like mid May until August/September I'd say, that would be at least one month more. It also rains more during the summer months, but despite that it can get really hot, I promise. The last summers in Thun it wasn't unusual when the thermometer was above 30°C or even above 35°C..
Wish you all the best.
i raised up here in switzerland and im living here for 30 years! i have no friend, people are sad and i domnt like switzerland! it is hard to live here! can i come with you? :) LOL
TobiLotta me too. But we dont have options like her. So better stick to Swiss :( :)
Same everybody is closed and sad!
What a whiny channel. You guys are doing something or some things fundamentally wrong. Stop trying to make others look worse just because you have issues and are unwilling to improve yourselves instead.
@@Zaitekno
Well said, sir.
Well being 30 years in a country and still sad is probably not the country's fault... just saying.
Also note that milk is not fortified with vitamin D in Switzerland/Germany/France. You might have really low levels of vitamin D now. It's worth getting it checked at the doctor or getting supplements.
Peace Sis! I am so sad you are not having the experience you were hoping for. Since you have a degree in education and have the experience of teaching in Switzerland, you can take that and run to another country! Have you ever thought of going to the caribbean? Since you enjoy warm weather that might be a good change, you have culturally enriched countries in the caribbean not to mention some of the recreation that exists there in that area might suit your beautiful bubbly personality. On top of that you can hop from island to island girl! But what ever you do, you were able to get away from the US partly because of old dude in the White House. Please do not come back here unless you absolutely have to! You deserve to live in a paradise of your own making!!! I am rooting for you!
Ms. Koraa where have you been that’s a shit hole? What country are you speaking of?
I totally understand how you’re feeling. I lived in Germany for many years and even when I spoke German and followed along with the normal routines I was unhappy. It took be just doing me and creating my own happiness which included frequent trips to Spain to recharge my battery and Vitamin D. Perhaps you can start a meetup group that would bring both expats and Swiss together to do the things you want to do.
I am in Southern California right now and honestly as an adult it can be hard to make. We friends in the states too but definitely not as hard as there I’m sure.
U R not alone 😂😂😂I married to a Swiss and living here nearly 10 years ... and after 4 to 5 years tried to made friends with the Swiss and I can just tell U I gave up totally 😒😒
I’m a 67 yr old retired American Black woman. I’ve lived in 5 different countries. I’ve been living in mainland China for 5 years. I NEVER dreamed of living here. I was watching your channel at 12a.m., sitting in a cafe that knows me so well, I can sit for 4 plus hrs without even buying anything. In China, especially where there aren’t very many people of color, many businesses WELCOME a foreigner using their services. It draws customers. When you keep going to the same businesses, people greet you. My veggie vendor FORCES extra free veggies on me that I have to give away ‘cause I don’t want to waste them. I never dreamed Chinese would be so welcoming to me. They too, suffer from bad press. And it’s not because I’m a linguist. My Mandarine is NOT good. You’re a beautiful, positive young woman. Please get out of there ASAP.
I think you should follow your gut and if your not happy it might not be the place for you. Follow your instincts and don't force it. Your young its the perfect time to explore, make mistakes, try new things, places etc and discover what will eventually make you happy. All the best with your decision.
Hello again Léontyne. You of course must follow your heart. Just my 2 cents as an American who has moved to European countries 4 times over the last 30 years. It takes a year but more often 2 years before you can feel at home in a new culture. I have done the back and forth thing more than once surprising myself by missing both for different reasons. The lack of vitamin D is a huge factor in the winter blues here. The sun is out today and there are real clouds out. I hope you walk in it and enjoy yourself. Let your skin soak some up. Watch the smiles start to form on the faces of the Swiss as they crawl out of the funk. The gatherings will start, people will begin to share food and drink, they will dance and make music and sing. Give it a little more time. Summer is longer than 2 months here and full of festive rejoicing, and if you decide to stay in this clean, low crime, un poisoned land that fights no wars and protects its ecology and water with very little poverty. Then do what smart people do. And go someplace warm in the winter. In the meantime make sure your getting a good source of vitamin D, no joke. May you be blessed wherever you go🙏
Hi. You wanna live in Portugal!!!! Sun shine, nice people, nice food and people that love to have fun.
Ps: im portuguese, living in Chile and moving to Switzerland in july. Thanks for your Chanel!
I recommend vitamin d and b-complex for the weather induced low mood. Tanning beds used regularly and over long periods of time have been found to increase the risk for melanoma; that being said, they are also used for medicinal purposes like getting rid of bilirubin build up in the liver. When you are in desperate need of a mood lifter 7 minutes in a tanning bed might be worth the risk; especially if you're only doing it once a month. Disclaimer: These statements have not been approved by the FDA and are not intended to treat or cure illness or disease...
I life in Basel too and sometimes it pisses me off also, not the racism but anyway.... totaly legit if u don't like it, i would go to more southern european countries like italy or spain, ppl are definatly more bubbly and outgoing ;)
Omggg giiirl i was born and raised here in basel and i hate it here as well ❤️ and i‘m not socially awkward i‘m super extroverted and i feel like that’s wrong here i feel so ungreatful but it’s just the society here makes me feel so alone and sad xoxo
Gurrrrl. They would kick my ass outta that country. You and I are very similar, plus add loud Cuban roots raised in Miami. Find your happiness babe. The world is too big and beautiful to feel like a big fish 🐟 in a small pond. Hell nah! Keep swimming... Hugs from Miami!!!
I'm really sorry to hear that! I'm a German living in Switzerland and some of the points you mention sound so familiar... I mostly have friends from Germany and all around the world, but Swiss people are so hard to befriend and I also feel my personality is too lively and outgoing for them to handle :D.
Weather sucks big time! But that's the same in Germany:/ ...
I have family, so I profit more from all the great things Switzerland has to offer. Like a breathtaking nature, beautiful parks and playgrounds, low crime rate, social security etc.
From what you describe, you should try moving to Barcelona!
What truly does Switzerland have to offer that so many countries don't? Breathtaking nature? Seriously? Can't you find that elsewhere? Beautiful parks and playgrounds? Hahahaha come on! Low crime rate? There's crime everywhere even in Switzerland! Social security? Hahahaha now this is getting ridiculous! Social security in Switzerland is on the decline if you don't know! Stop painting Switzerland like it's some paradise. It's just highly over-rated that's all! Nothing special!
I forgot to mention that ,as others have already pointed out, life here takes a 180 in summer. Because the sun goes down around 9 to 10 in the evening during the summer months, ppl spend so much more time outside in bars and cafés. I live near a big lake and it often has this Mediterranean feeling when we go out in the evening with music, lights and laughter everywhere. It's a bit weird to describe but as soon as the sun comes out in April/May people just go nuts to get a glimpse of it :) myself included
Julia Riel you are just trying to fit her in your narrow-minded way of life in Switzerland. If you can't have fun in winter but only in summer then life must be very depressing! Even in summer most Swiss try to escape the country and go on vacations because Switzerland doesn't have much to offer in general. Summer doesn't change anything! Stop lying! Even in summer people are still unfriendly, straight-faced, depressed just like in winter. It's something you can't change in Switzerland.
Chris Amar sending you warm thoughts...sounds like you are having a rough time:(
@@julir4710 I agree with him, I had a rough time in Switzerland too. Now I am in Germany and feeling so much better about my social life.
Leon today am gonna tell u......u look perfect and so beautiful, I like ur new hair style, and ur make up ain't too much, u really look like an African woman . I feel bad that ur leaving and am also happy for you to leave , bse as " melanin people of the sun" , the sun is our best friend and we can't go too many days without saying hello to it. I can understand how u feel. And ur right the Swiss are closed people , especially the Swiss Germans, I used to live in wintherthur in Zurich and I left after 3 months , the first time, and came back to Basel and stayed for 4 days and went to Munich . But u should have tried the southern part , like Lugano , the people there are more open and welcoming and there is always an expectation of a happy mood. U shouldn't have stayed in the house after work.....u could have taken the train to Zurich down town and met some happy people. And there are African communities there and bars for black people...ofcousre not only Africans but black and brown people from all over the world. With my ex boyfriend since he is an attorney I used we used to meet with some of his friends knee in a while but they were also so closed to me , so I found my way and discovered places on my own, sometimes it's hard to get along when ur black in Switzerland as they will always see u as a foreigner no matter how long u stay, I hope when u go back to the states where ur Herat lies u will be happy, east or west home is best, and to me , I left back to Africa despite having a good well provided for life in Switzerland. And the fact that I have family in Munich I found Munich to be more welcoming since the people there are not so closed. But all in all I just want u to be who u truly are...and one more thing don't always take advise from the other side as criticism , sometimes it's a way of looking into our selves and helping us to truly discover who we are. Ur are beatific woman.
I totally can relate to your experience. I was once an exchange student in Germany & lived in a small city of Lahr, Germany. The town is just a few hours from where you live now, Basel Switzerland & also borders the country of France. I tell you, I was totally bored to tears. it was very hard to make friends with the locals & being a minority did not help either. Being a student at that time I was able to buy Euro Trail Student Pass at a discount & used that opportunity to travel some parts of Europe. My most memorable trip was traveling to Italy. Italians are more friendly & easy to talk to with fewer hang-ups. My advice to you, take the time to travel to other parts of Europe especially Italy or Spain. People, there are friendlier & warm.
Viel Glück.
Thanks! Yes seriously I'm the happiest when I'm traveling. Its boring here and people are cold and rude. I'm sick of it.
One other advice is, learn their language. It will open up a new perspective outlook once you learn their language. It will open a new door for you, It did on me. Another thing I learned when traveling was backpacking. It was easy to travel hopping from one train to another. Being a student at that time I could only afford to stay at Hostels which was cheap but I was able to meet a lot of people from all over the world & made friends with them during my stay at the hostel.
Journal about how you feel and go with what feels right. I’ve been living in Japan for over a year and knew it’s getting close for me to leave. I want to move on and will be leaving in the fall so I understand your struggle.
Best wishes.
I hate to hear that you're not happy, it's sad when you put your time into something and it's not what you had expect it, but sometimes we have to push through and maybe there's a brighter light at the end of the path, don't give up stay strong you're a savvy woman you will make the right decision when the time comes , remember those kids in the classroom they're counting on you
Courageous lady. At least u tried. By the way, u look great with y our hair that way, and the red lipstick and nails. U look geat.
Hope you will find your place in the world.
I hope you'll see this comment:
I just saw your video about your first day in Switzerland and yeah… I thought the whole time "Oh dang I hope she survives the culture shock" and now I saw this video and I conclude… the shock was maybe a little to strong.
As a Swiss, living in America, I completely understand why it's hard for you. In the same way it's hard for you living in Switzerland, it's sometimes hard for me to live in the USA. Swiss people don't talk with strangers unless they have to. Swiss people have their 3-4 friends and that's it. If they want to make a new friend, it will take time. Here in the states, every stranger talks to you and that's sometimes just too much for me (because it just feels sketchy) and to add to that, having friends after just two weeks feels wrong honestly… because it feels like they're just faking the friendship.
To the weather part, yes, it is rainy/snowy in Switzerland in winter. However, I'd suggest you, if you move back to Switzerland at some point, to move closer to the mountains (like Obwalden/Nidwalden). First of all it's beautiful in Winter (a lot of snow) and it's not that rainy.
Also, I wouldn't say that swiss people are unhappy but Switzerland is a performance orientated country for sure. What a lot people do after work is to get a beer with some friends or to do a sport (skiing on weekends, tennis, soccer, rowing, biking etc).
I'm sorry that it hit you in that way. But you seem like a nice person. I'd love to get to know you better once you're back in Switzerland. So you'd have a friend base to start with ;)
I'm originally from Los Angeles. In fact, im here now visiting family. My theory is that if your essential basic needs are met, you have food, companionship and somewhere safe to live, you should be happy and going somewhere else because the grass is always greener on the other side is not actually going to make you happy until you find out what you really need to make yourself happy. But it seems to me that your not having your needs met with companionship. Do you miss your parents too? It must be really hard being there all alone.
Climb up Maslov's hierarchy of needs
Im not a doctor but it seems like a winter depression to me, alot of ppl get that in switzerland because they go to work when its dark and come home when its dark again. I had a hard time getting used to that and hated it during winter.
You are young and have a lot of time to experience alot of diffrent things, if you feel like leaveing switzerland you should definitly do that. If ppl tell you to suck it up, you should allways remember that decisions about your live affect you first and foremost. Maybe you can look back in a few years and smile about your decision.
Anyway i hope you enjoyed your stay and i wish you good luck on your journey, where ever it takes you.
Please wait til summertime and travel to Italy and the south of France! It is so so beautiful and so nice and warm! Wait til summer! It will be warmer soon!
Absolutely don't think you are ungrateful or anything like that, but you just need a little more time. You are beautiful and outgoing and so intelligent you just need some time. And it's getting warmer soon!!!
Don’t leave yet! Don’t listen to people! Not yet! Stay! It’s tough but it gets better! In any case I wish all the best to you and God bless!!!!
And it sounds crazy that the weather is what makes people happy go jolly. I'm happy just because I get to have life again for everyday that I wake up and hell I live in Chicago where the weather sucks because it's bipolar but that's not going to change my mood everyday until another season approaches.. I mean good lord but like I said wishing nothing but happiness for you
I'm a swiss citizien and I have to say: most of us are assho*** especially the older generation. Also it's so super quite and consverative, new things are taking reeeeally long to appear. I think it's so hard for foreigner to make friends with swiss people, because you appear weird if you talk all of a sudden with one haha
If I finished my Masters Degree I will move to another country :D :D Not everything is shiny here lol
Yup! I'm glad you are aware and understand. It wasn't for me. I'm so happy I'm out of there!
There is nothing “ungrateful “ about you feeling like it’s not for you. You do what makes you happy. It’s about you loving your life and what you do with it. How did you get there? You saved up packed one suitcase and left. If you feel you need to do it again go for it Leah go where ever you want to go doesn’t have to be the states. Take care of you Hun.
Hello Leon, my channel is in Portuguese so unfortunately you will not understand what I say in my videos, in case you decide to check it out. Anyway, I recently got to know your channel and this is the second video I am seeing of you. You live here for such a short time and I am here for almost 10 years. Came here to work, am here until today. I kind of started to cry watching you saying EVERYTHING I felt like throughout these years living here. I am from Brazil by the way. The go to work-go to home thing, the spontaneous talk and the weather... my God, you killed me with your words reminding me of how I was when I got here. As some people said in the comments, I think Switzerland makes you more mature, I did. Or maybe I had to. Sorry for the long comment but I just wanted to say that dont give up, I still didnt watch the video of why you are here, but whatever reason it is, make it up to it. Life here is worth it, we grow up and we change, we understand so much more after some years. I cannot explain in this comment but I just hope you trust my words and pass your time in a good way so that you can get to the time when you enjoy CH some more. Hugs. Liana
Why shouldn't she give up when the experience is not beneffitting her? It's very annoying how people think they can influence other people's experience. Stop forcing other people to accept your views. She's not the first person to feel unhappy in Switzerland. There are many who share her sentiments.
Follow your heart! As you said, you are still young and this is in part the beauty of our youth: being able to experience new countries, new emotions, new perspectives. Voicing your unhappiness at this point in your life is not being "ungrateful," but being honest with yourself. Part of the privilige that comes with being an educated young woman is the agency and financial security that allows you, and you alone, to dictate where you choose to live. I pray that God leads you to where He wants you to be. I wish you nothing but the best!
If i were you, I would start researching now other places to visit, save your money, then leave there. Life is too short to settle when you not happy. The good thing is you can always say you had the chance to experience your parents birth country and use that for memories with photos you can cherish. Good luck to you.
Avery nice comment full of wisdom
Don't let people make you feel bad for feeling the way you do. You are going to have good days and you are going to have bad days in the end is your life and your decision. Much love
Wait for spring and summer to come! Winter sucks here and I’m born here looooooooong time ago and know what I’m talking about. Summertime is much better and people are much more open. Maybe you need to move to Züri! Basel would make me depressed as well.
then what happens next winter??????SAME grumpy people HELL NOO
That's what I'm afraid of....
Summertime is the time where you meet new people naturally and more frequent than in winter. Good luck!
Check this out ruclips.net/video/WCSQwPv6Z-k/видео.html
Who is grumpy? I was born in Zurich and me and my peeps aren't grumpy neither are many other people in zurich. Maybe you are grumpy? ;)
Switzerland is a beautiful country but I think it’s true when the say the people make the country.people out there won’t say hello or anything so I can imagine how lonely it gets.
I m from Geneva and I pretend to move to another country. I don’t like Switzerland for the same reasons you mentioned. Even if I have some closed friends here. I want to meet silly people 😂
Context: I've lived all over the U.S. and the world. The only two places I lived that I didn't like were places you might not expect: Louisville, KY and San Diego, CA. Louisville is actually beautiful, but incredibly insular and, hence, culturally "cold"--"cold" being something you don't expect in the South. San Diego seems to have some of the most shockingly and consistently hateful and impolite people I've ever met, and a local culture that I just didn't "get."
By contrast, once upon a time, I never thought I'd like the L.A. area. But, lo and behold, I loved living there--not as a forever home, but as an interesting city truly unlike any other in the world, and with surprisingly friendly enough people. L.A. is dirty, though. I had some friends, but mostly acquaintances (such is life, really). Nevertheless, I just felt alive there.
At this time, I'm bouncing back and forth between Australia and New Zealand. Australia has a lot to like, and the people are generally well-meaning, but it doesn't exactly pull my heartstrings, either. My reaction is generally one of, "blah." New Zealand, on the other hand, has been so easy for me to just flat-out fall in love with. NZ feels like Middle Earth, and like a giant small town.
Go where you feel comfortable. I'd love to visit Switzerland and I'm sure it's a fabulous country in many respects, but, if it isn't for you, then it isn't. And, Switzerland, while not being in the EU, is still part of the EEA and the Schengen Zone, so perhaps you could try living in Italy or France or Denmark or someplace like that... (If you choose to stay in CH, though, good luck.)
Sounding a bit homesick. Hang in there and keep your head up!
She's is not homesick. She is just sick of Switzerland...
Hey Lea. You have done something that most don't do by stepping outside of your comfort zone. You came, you conquered, now it's time to go. Move on to your next adventure knowing that you did something amazing! I for one, could not live in a place like Switzerland, it seems way to bland, and that whole no sun thing...nah! I am excited to see where you'll take us next!