I am trying to find out how good of an idea this is. I may get a job in Luzern and my bf would come along. Thing is, it may be easier for him to find a job in Zurich (he does speak german) than Luzern and i was wondering if it is possible to live in Luzern and go to work every day in Zurich.
Is it very expensive? and how about a car? we would bring our car from Sweden, will we need to "import" (as for changing the plates and such)the car or would it be ok to drive it in Switzerland?
Another option would be living in Zug and so we both would use the train to travel to work, me to Luzern and him to Zurich...
I know somebody who commutes 2-4 times a week from Zurich to Lucerne by train. I think it's doable if both destinations aren't too far from the station.
I also know a couple of people who do this and manage it ok.
Personaly, I wouldn't go for Zug, the tax is lower, but the rent is higher, and it is a little quiet, you'll probably spend most evenings out either in Luzern or Zurich.
It all depends on what you are use to. I know people who live in Thun and commute to Zurich . . . the enjoy the hours of quite and down time on the train.
Lots of people live in Zurich, because they enjoy the multi-cultural aspects and night life. . . . it is also where many EF events go on, and they work in Zug, Luzern etc. It is a matter of taste.
My suggestion to you is if you are heading from Zurich to Luzern everyday to get a GA (General Abonnement) so you can use the rail system and tram system in any city. It is expensive up front but saves you the hassle of buying tickets and gives you the chance to go all over Switzerland.
One of my friends travels from Luzern to Zurich everyday, and I think that provided you dont have too far to travel from the station it works just fine. He certainly doesn't have any plans to move to Zurich, and loves Luzern.
I would definately recommend getting the General Abondonment (GA) too. It will save a lot of money when commuting on a daily basis.
If you do decide to get it, please be aware that if you have not been in Switzerland for 6 months, or living with someone who has been here for 6 months, you will have to pay the full year charge rather than monthly installments.
Unfortunately I discovered this after numerous trips to the SBB office, even though I filled out my form (with the help of staff) there in the first place!
Oh guys thanks a lot for the valuable info! I will look into it. I am the one that *may* work in Luzern (interview coming up next week OMG) so i am thinking for my man who is a programmer and thinks that there may be more opportunities in Zurich...
Talking about bikes...how easy is it to bike in big cities?
I live in Sweden now and i use my bike EVERY day because there are bike lanes all over...