Switzerland uses the franc, a currency solely unique to the country. While I was there, the franc was equal approximately to the USD. Remember that outside of Switzerland, the Euro is king! It’s most advisable to bring a credit card, which are accepted at most stores and groceries. I chose Capital One because it charges zero foreign transaction fees. I also brought a debit card in order to get cash from ATMs, which are all over the cities. It is worth mentioning how expensive Switzerland is. The country’s idyllic Alpine lifestyle, political and economic stability, superior healthcare, and high standard of living come at a price. Because students are responsible for our own living expenses, I held a monthly budget of around 1,000 Swiss francs. You can absolutely be more frugal than I was, but “when in Basel,” am I right?

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Before arriving in Basel, I had to pay a safety deposit fee plus the first month’s rent. I used xe.com to send money to WoVe, who provided their account information. I continued to pay rent through this website, but there was also an option to pay with a slip that WoVe gives with your contract when you arrive. I continued to use Xe.com to pay international bills, from city registration fees to splitting costs with friends.