Essentials to live in Switzerland

In these modern days, there is hardly anything that cannot be bought in Switzerland (or ordered abroad by Internet). It must be remarked, however, that Switzerland is a very expensive country - on the other hand, the average wages are high as well.
"Swiss Quality" is well known over the world. The quality standards of products you buy in Switzerland is extremely high.

Highlights of things that are particularly expensive in Switzerland:
- Meat (but be aware that there are strict custom regulations on how much you are allowed to bring)
- Health and body care stuff. Anything from soap to pain killers to more advanced medicine is much more expensive than abroad.

It is quite normal, particularly in the areas close to the borders, to shop abroad (particularly in Germany, partially also in Italy, France and Austria). Keep in mind, however, that there are custom regulations on how much you are allowed to import!

Map of Switzerland - it is cheaper abroad
Passport pictures
get a mobile phone / sim card abroad.
One that covers Switzerland.
Roaming with the abroad card, could be cheaper than a call with a Swiss number.