Aside from what you mentioned, I spent 1 year in Japan (granted it was 20 years ago) and the discrimination against foreigners was so pervasive and permissive, that businesses went so far as to put signs on their doors saying "no foreigners allowed"... kind of like "no dogs."

I went to one town, and there were so many businesses that did not allow foreigners that it was difficult to find a hotel or even a place to eat.

So... when the SVP tout their horn and masseinwanderenstoppen... it's really pale in comparison to what I remember from Japan.

I am not seeking a heated exchange either; it sounded to me as if you might have other personal insight to offer regarding your experience/opinion of IS, and I was seeking also to help the OP by asking you to detail it, that is all.

Back on-topic!

Yes, I lived in japan for a couple of years and people were unbelievably nice and welcoming. I learnt the language and made an effort to join in with society. I did the same here and haven't had any real problems.

Tiger12345, did you have a good experience in Japan?

However, if your children attend international school, the neighbours may treat you very differently than if your children attend local school with their kids. A lot of foreigners do not understand this.[/QUOTE]


Apologies for thread creep but I was wondering if there are any views on why this is the case? is it because locals view foreigners with kids in international schools as foreigners who are not here for the long term so are not worth getting to know or as rich elitists who because of their schooling choice are patently not interested in integration? I ask because I have noticed this attitude myself and would like to try to overcome it if possible.

Traditionally, only kids with problems went to private schools and for Swiss kids, this is often still the case. Private schools have a reputation for unpleasant/unhealthy behaviour, often stemming from the unlimited resources enjoyed by their pupils.

how do you define "net"? Is that net of taxes or net of social security (usual Swiss definition)? In any case, you will be able to survive, but it very much depends on your standard of living. I know people in similar situations who struggle (not seriously, but they complain about not being able to save at all, having to cut back spending for vacations, etc.). Private school is usually the killer, especially once both your kids come into that age. I would guess that the typical parent sending their kids to the International School makes more than 175K or has their employer paying for it.

Kittser
thanks, do you think then that locals view private school kids as problematic or difficult and therefore better avoided by their kids? Isn't that a bit obtuse when it is obvious that the reason foreign kids go to international school is language. I have noticed a general lack of interest in foreigners, kids or adults, but .i think I am just comparing it pointlessly to the Irish norm, which no doubt many would see as too interested in others and indeed quite nosey. Horses for courses....