What I Took For Granted While In Switzerland

My List of 10 things I took for granted

1. 1. Being able to speak English to everyone

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We all have questions during the time we are abroad, and its worse when the Swiss let you suffer when you try and speak your broken German in order to get your question across. But, I would never have learnt German so quickly if they did not push me.

2. I can own my dog, and I do not need to pay a tax for it

Via ustaxpractice.com

Yes, the Swiss make you pay a tax on owning a dog. It is nice not having to do that in the US. I am sure there would be a lot of outrage if there was.

3. Not being able to hang my laundry out to dry on a Sunday

Being South African, we love the outdoors and utilize it for more than just socializing and exercising. This was the biggest adjustment by far, because I had to take into consideration the community, before my own customs.

4. Sour Patch Kids

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I love Sour Patch, and I could not buy it in Switzerland. (maybe not as much as this guy, but certainly more than usual!)

5. Freedom to Immigrate without a quota system

Via swissinfo.ch

6. My Family

You do not realize it, but you will miss your family more than ever. They are a constant rock that are now across an ocean and six hours behind. It is hard to speak to them, and it is hard to find someone to rely on like your family.

7. Being able to go for a drive

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It was tough not being able to drive. I liked that I could drive in the US whenever I wanted. What made it even harder, is that it was so beautiful, all you wanted to do WAS drive.

8. Southern Hospitality

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Swiss people have a different type of hospitality. If you do your part in the community, they will accept you and be very friendly to you. But there is something about Southern Hospitality that was familiar that I missed.

9. Southern Fried Chicken

Via theadvocate.com

Southern fried chicken is amazing and you do not realize how good it is until you cannot order it anymore. Yes, the Bratwurst, Schnitzels and Fondue are equally as amazing. But I now treasure my friend chicken so much more when I order it

10. Going to class and having lectures

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When we go to University, our Professors lecture us and we get the information. That is why we pay so much money. But in Europe, there are not lectures. You are expected to learn it yourself and show up for the final. I am a person who learns by listening, so I definitely took that for granted.