Written by: Trea Tijmens, Senior Level Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
If you come to Switzerland as a single person or are getting ready to look for a new partner here, you'll probably approach dating like you did in your country of origin. This can lead to some dating mistakes that can cost you an opportunity to find that special someone.
Here's what you need to know about dating in Switzerland if you're looking for a serious relationship.
Switzerland Is multilingual
If you're an expat in Switzerland and your first language is English, you still have a good chance of meeting interesting people, especially in bigger cities. Switzerland's population is about 25% foreigners.
If you speak one of the three main official Swiss languages – German, French, or Italian (at least at a conversational level) make sure to mention it in your dating app profile. Some locals feel more comfortable speaking their native tongue. Do use the opportunity and make the effort to learn a local language, it can only benefit you.
Understand Swiss culture
Every country has its own unspoken rules of social connections. With Switzerland, it gets more complicated because each language region will be slightly different.
In general, people in the French-speaking part tend to have a more outgoing vibe compared to Swiss Germans who may come across as more reserved at first.
These are, of course, generalizations and the main point is to be curious about the Swiss culture and society. Make it your goal to make Swiss acquaintances and ask them questions about what's considered good manners, what may be perceived as rude, and how to make a good impression when dating a Swiss man or woman.
In Switzerland, stick to big dating apps
If you come from a bigger country or cities like New York, London, or Paris, you may expect to have a big choice of dating apps. But there are only eight million people living in Switzerland in total! So, the singles market will not be as big as you're used to.
If you want to try your luck in meeting other singles on dating apps, stick to the major players. And if you need support, reach out to a professional dating coach or matchmaker.
Be prepared to travel for dates
Switzerland is a small country. You can drive from one end to the other in about four hours. Its largest cities are under 500 000 inhabitants. That means, if you want to broaden the pool of potential matches, you'll have to commute for dates from time to time.
The good news is that the Swiss train system is one of the best in the world and even a ride on a local train offers breathtaking views. You can even have a date in a train as most intercity ones have a restaurant carriage.
You'll never run out of date ideas
The biggest perk of being in Switzerland is that, despite its small size, it offers a rich selection of attractions.
From taking a cruise on the lake, to a gondola ride and a sunset dinner at 3000 metres above sea level, to fine dining from star chefs – Swiss dating has it all.
Yes, the country is expensive compared to most other countries, but you can find lots of budget-friendly options too if you know where to look.
Avoid dating mistakes and succeed in love
Dating in Switzerland may be different from what you're used to, so it's important to be strategic about it.
Working with a dating coach who knows the local singles market can help you navigate the dating world with ease and avoid common mistakes singles make when searching for a life partner.
I have almost 18 years of experience as a matchmaker and science-based dating coach and have helped thousands of singles meet their life partner. Get in touch and schedule a complimentary call to learn how I can help you find personal happiness.
Trea Tijmens, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Trea Tijmens, the CEO of www.successmatch.ch, is an international elite matchmaker and award-winning dating expert and coach.
Trea believes that to love and be loved is a basic human need and that people do not thrive without love.
A former head-hunter, she founded SuccessMatch in 2005. Based in Switzerland, she works with local and international clientele and prides herself on her high success rate.
Trea is passionate about helping her highly international single professional clientele transition from where they are today to where they want to be; in a happy, fulfilling, lasting relationship with the right partner!
