My Suisse Life
  • Home
  • About Me
    • Buy A Hula Hoop
    • Prof du Hula Hoop Fitness
    • Hoop Gymnique™
  • Hoop Fitness Genève
    • Blog
    • Become A Member
    • Hoop Sessions >
      • Flow Sessions
      • Flow Playlists
    • Resources
    • Events >
      • International Flow Arts Day
    • Hula Hoop Info
  • Contact
  • Home
  • About Me
    • Buy A Hula Hoop
    • Prof du Hula Hoop Fitness
    • Hoop Gymnique™
  • Hoop Fitness Genève
    • Blog
    • Become A Member
    • Hoop Sessions >
      • Flow Sessions
      • Flow Playlists
    • Resources
    • Events >
      • International Flow Arts Day
    • Hula Hoop Info
  • Contact
Picture

10 Reasons We Decided to Move to Geneva, Switzerland

10/17/2019

28 Comments

 
Picture
I have to be honest when I began my investigation to compare Rotterdam to Geneva. I was quite ignorant about Switzerland. To me, Switzerland is one of those countries that is a bit mysterious. However, during my research, the more I learned about the country, the more intrigued I became. When I finished, both sides of my paper for Geneva were full!


I want to share with you some of what I learned. Here are our top 10 reasons we are delighted to be moving to Geneva, Switzerland.

10 reasons we are moving
​to Geneva, Switzerland

Picture

1. Switzerland is a great place to raise a family

Switzerland in the U.S. News', Best Country Rankings ranked number 1 for the overall best country in the world. 7th for the best place to raise kids for the third year in a row. Though the cost of living is high in Switzerland. The Swiss enjoy the highest quality of life found anywhere on the planet.
​

​Switzerland is:​​


  • Economically and politically safe
  • Possesses a good job market
  • Is family friendly
  • Has a well developed health and public education system


For all Children ages, 4-18 in the canton of Geneva school is free and compulsory including foreign nationals. Swiss university costs are reasonable too. The education system is world-renowned, offering its students a diverse and enriching learning environment.


Switzerland also ranks 7th in the world for the quality of education and 3rd for the best university system. The overwhelming majority of children living in Switzerland attend public school, with only 5% attending private institutions.
Picture

2. Geneva is a Francophone canton

If you were wondering what language is spoken in Switzerland? Switzerland has 4 official languages French, German, Italian, and Romansh. The canton of Geneva is located on the international border with France. So, the local language spoken there is Swiss-French.​
​According to SwissInfo, 22.9% of the Swiss population speaks French. 40% of the people living and working in Geneva are foreign-born. Making "English, the international lingua franca widely and regularly spoken in Switzerland. By 43%, 38% and 30% of Swiss in the German-, French- and Italian speaking parts of the country respectively."​


For our family, this removes the obstacle of a language barrier. Thus making a move to Switzerland less complicated for everyone. Growing up as an expat in Geneva. Charles will be exposed to other languages because of Switzerland's plurilingual society. Plus, he will also speak French and English fluently.


​A cool side-note for us is that Romain's family lives in the Haute Savoie region. ​This means Charles will get to grow up with and be much closer to his Family. ​
Picture

3. Switzerland is one of the safest places to live

Safe is something people always say they feel when in Switzerland, and on our visit to Geneva, we were no exception. Switzerland ranked 7th out of 162 countries for the safest country in the world. It has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the world. Little gun-related street crime and no mass shootings since 2001.
​​
According to the 2019 Global Peace Index produced by the international think-tank Institute for Economics and Peace. Switzerland ranked 4th in the world in the domain of safety and security. ​Plus, one cannot forget the fact that there are enough nuclear fallout shelters to accommodate 115% of its population! 

4. Geneva's proximity to nature 

When we think of Switzerland, we think of natural beauty, of the snowcapped mountains, of lakes and green landscapes. When I thought of Geneva. I immediately thought of the finance district, the headquarters of the United Nations, NGOs, and multinational corporations. I thought of buildings and businesses, not of its proximity to nature and its green spaces.​


​Geneva is one of Europe's least polluted cities and is known as one of the greenest cities in the world. Nicknamed the 'city of parks.' In Geneva, there are 50 public green spaces and over 310 hectares of parks throughout 25 locations. Which covers a total of 20% of its territory, with a new park finishing in 2021. ​​​


For us, this is an incredible opportunity, and we are looking forward to teaching Charles a love of nature and sports. Romain, and are avid outdoors people. We feel fortunate to have such ready access to parks, green spaces, lakes, and skiing. It will be a welcomed change for us. Day trips to Mont Salève and lake Geneva are definitely in our future!
Picture

5. Geneva is an international city & a cultural hub

A multicultural city with a long history. Geneva is Europe's most international city and one of the most cultured cities in the world. According to SwissInfo, Geneva is Switzerland's most cosmopolitan canton. With roughly 2 out of 3 residents holding a foreign passport from more than 190 different countries. 


As stated on the official website for the city of Geneva. "A dynamic, international city like Geneva devotes a large part of its budget to cultural affairs. Supporting creativity in the arts and facilitating public access to culture in all its forms are the principal policy objectives of the Department of Culture and Sport." ​​​

​
Throughout the year, Geneva hosts a mosaic of cultural events including, film and music festivals. It's home to the 100-year-old Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and Le Grand Théâtre de Genève. The most significant artistic structure in French-speaking Switzerland. There you can experience the opera, theater, and ballet. 


Geneva also has 40 museums, 4 of which are world-renowned. More than 60 art galleries were unique exhibitions, and rare collections are on display. The city encourages its smallest residents to enjoy its cultural splendors as well, by providing kid-friendly and family-focused activities!

6. It's bike and pedestrian friendly 

In Geneva, there is an amazingly efficient public transportation system. However, if walking or biking is for you, there are cultural trails you can take throughout the city. That allows you to learn the history of a neighborhood. Discover the places where famous personalities have left their mark or see public pieces of art.


​​Throughout the city, there are accommodations for people with reduced mobility at sidewalks, buses, and trams stops. With guiding devices at stoplights for the blind and visually impaired. Additionally, most tourist sites and activities can be reached in less than 15 minutes by foot from the city center. ​


​Geneva promotes the development of more sustainable mobility for its residents and protects the inhabitants from nuisances caused by traffic. By extending bike routes, increasing the safety of cyclists. Promoting cycling as a means of daily transportation and leisure activity. Geneva also supports active associations such as Genèveroule. Which makes bicycles available to the public, organizes bike driving courses, visits to the cycling network of routes. You can even organize a city tour!
Picture

7. Geneva is one of the cleanest cities in the world

Now I love this. In Geneva, there is an association called ZeroWaste Switzerland. They are an organization who "encourages and enables citizens, institutions, and economic parties to choose a manner of consumption and production without waste, by favouring a renewable and circular economy." They give you tips & tricks on how to go zero waste. They also organize a myriad of topic-based cafés, conferences, workshops, and interventions. Romain and I are all about getting involved when we get settled.


​Geneva is the cleanest city we have ever visited. While we were there, we didn't come across a piece of trash! Though the Swiss are the largest waste producer in Europe, they are also one of its most prominent recyclers. Recycling and composting more than half of all waste and burning the remaining trash in special incinerators underground to produce energy. 


​According to SwissInfo, "The Swiss Federal Office for the Environment estimates that in total, littering costs the nation almost CHF200 million ($203.4 million) in clean-up expenses per year." 75% is paid by Swiss cities. Switzerland is also where you can find some of the world's cleanest tap water. It is the most controlled foodstuff in Switzerland, meeting the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

8. Geneva's food scene is lit

Did you know Switzerland is the country with the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita? 118 restaurants, to be exact. You can find 93 of them in Geneva alone, making it Switzerland's undisputed food capital. 


Though it possesses a robust gastronomic identity of its own, Geneva also has a vibrant international food scene. In Geneva, there are more than 140 ethnic restaurants. Offering restaurateurs the opportunity to eat cuisines from around the world for every palate and budget. ​Plus, the cheese and sausage situation is to die for! And can we talk about all the Swiss chocolate your heart desires!


Their best-kept secret is that they produce wine. Swiss vineyards are exceptional, growing a unique variety of grapes that can be traced all the way back to the Romans. Geneva is the third largest wine producer in Switzerland and offers some breathtaking agricultural tourism. By way of bicycle tours through vineyards and is also the location of the longest vineyard walk in Switzerland. 

9. Switzerland is a direct democracy

Personally, of all the new things I am learning about the Swiss. Their style of government, this direct democracy is something I find quite interesting. Beginning August 1, 1291, with the joining of the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. In an alliance against the governors of the Counts of Habsburg. The Switzerland of today consists of 26 individual cantons, much like the states in America. Joined together to form the Confoederatio Helvetica in Latin (Helvetic Confederation in English).


The cantons share power with the federal government and 2,000+ communes in a 3-tier political system.​ Direct democracy involves the direct participation of citizens. In democratic decision making and is a unique feature of the Swiss political system. It enables voters to express their opinion on decisions made by the federal parliament. It also allows them to introduce amendments to the Federal Constitution.


The Swiss do this by starting a referendum or an initiative providing them with a maximum of political self-determination.​ Citizens also flex their civic-might by utilizing three mechanisms, which form the core of their direct democracy:

  • A popular initiative
  • Optional referendum
  • Mandatory referendum


All Swiss citizens over the age of 18 have the right to vote. Voters are called on around four times a year to vote on an average of 15 federal proposals. ​For more information on how Switzerland's government works, check out this article by The Local CH.​
Personally, of all the new things I am learning about the Swiss. Their style of government, this direct democracy is something I find quite interesting. Beginning August 1, 1291, with the joining of the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. In an alliance against the governors of the Counts of Habsburg. The Switzerland of today consists of 26 individual cantons, much like the states in America. Joined together to form the Confoederatio Helvetica in Latin (Helvetic Confederation in English).


The cantons share power with the federal government and 2,000+ communes in a 3-tier political system.​ Direct democracy involves the direct participation of citizens. In democratic decision making and is a unique feature of the Swiss political system. It enables voters to express their opinion on decisions made by the federal parliament. It also allows them to introduce amendments to the Federal Constitution.

​
The Swiss do this by starting a referendum or an initiative providing them with a maximum of political self-determination.​ Citizens also flex their civic-might by utilizing three mechanisms, which form the core of their direct democracy:

10. Geneva is less populated than Marseille 

Recently research has shown that the risk of:

  • PTSD
  • Anger management issues
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Cardiovascular disease

Are generally higher for people living in cities compared to that of rural areas. Caused in part by problems associated with:​
​


  • Higher rates of pollution (e.g., air, water)
  • Noise pollution (e.g., traffic)
  • Specific urban designs (e.g., tall buildings that may be perceived as oppressive)
  • Physical threats (e.g., accidents, violence)​



The urban population of the world has risen from 751 million to 4.2 billion since 1950. Currently, 55% of the global population lives in cities with more than 300,000 inhabitants. According to the UN, that number is set to reach 68% by 2050. As of 2019, residing in its métropole Marseille has an estimated 1 603 000 inhabitants (that's a 25% increase from 2018). Geneva has an estimated 501 748 inhabitants as of 2018 (+ 07% increase from 2017).



Unfortunately, as it stands, Marseille's city government is incapable of meeting the challenges and needs of the growing urban population. Especially problems related to public safety, housing, transportation, employment, education, and other necessary infrastructure. So I am sure you can imagine running errands with a small child. It can be quite challenging and to put it mildly unpleasant at times.​ 
Picture

​It was essential for us to make this move while Charles was still young. So he could grow up feeling 'from' somewhere. We wanted this move to be one where our family could set down its roots. At the end of the day, we had to be honest with ourselves., as city dwellers and as parents.



​Romain will always be a boy from the Alps. He's someone who has an admiration for nature and loves being active. I'm a Valley girl from Los Angeles, a total suburbanite through and through. So, of course, when thinking about Charles' future and trying to find the right balance for our family things like:



  • Excellent infrastructure
  • Safety
  • Green space
  • More diverse entertainment options
  • Outstanding schools
  • The ability to live a more active lifestyle
  • Quiet
  • A civic-minded society
  • Being close to family ​

​
All definitely counted towards our final decision, and this is why we feel living in Geneva is perfect for us. We will be able to have all the points mentioned above. Plus Geneva is a little city that packs a big punch! It has all the entertainment options you would find in any larger international city. With none of the constraints of being in a big metropolis.
​
Not to mention you can cross from one end of Geneva to the other in about 30 minutes by car. You are 20 minutes from an international airport and 45 minutes' drive from the nearest ski slope! Whether you love food, are passionate about history, are nature admirers, or appreciate good music and theater, you will surely find what you are looking for in Geneva. ​

RSS Feed

28 Comments
Christel LAUTEL
11/4/2019 11:12:42 pm

Let me know in the comments if you learned anything new about Switzerland? If you are Swiss, how did I do?

Reply
PALMER
11/15/2019 08:37:25 pm

Good job!

Reply
Andrea
7/23/2020 10:36:34 pm

Christel, I am so impressed with your research! I love how you think about Charles' upbringing every step of the way- truly so much devotion witnessed here. I did not know Switzerland was a direct democracy and am relieved you will have that kind of empowered relation to the polity and cityscape. I wish you guys the best and am adding Geneva to my bucket list of places to visit so that we can have some delicious hot beverages and catch up on your journey. Sending you so much love!

Reply
Karletta
11/10/2019 07:34:35 pm

I visited Switzerland a few years back. Loved it! I believe it’s a dream country for many. Thanks for sharing.

Reply
judean link
11/11/2019 06:38:19 pm

You make me want to move to Switzerland. Probably not going to happen but now that will be on my bucket list to visit at least!

Reply
Sarah link
11/12/2019 07:25:46 am

Geneva looks so beautiful and clean. I would love to move there. Thanks for sharing!

Reply
Janay
11/13/2019 04:56:33 am

This is so informative and interesting! After reading this post I almost wanna move myself!

Reply
Sarah
11/15/2019 05:36:17 pm

Switzerland looks amazing!!! I want to live there now lol. Gorgeous!!

Reply
Leigha link
11/15/2019 05:52:10 pm

Wow! I learned so much about Switzerland and a ton of things I didn't know! Sounds like a wonderful place to raise a family!

Reply
Meru Aray
11/15/2019 06:24:22 pm

I love this! I am so excited for you guys and cannot wait to hear more! Peace!

Reply
Dyrell Dones
11/18/2019 12:53:46 pm

Very interesting.

I learned quite a bit.

Reply
Searcy
11/20/2019 01:59:31 am

This is a great post. I would love to live in Switzerland. It sounds like y’all are having a blast.

Reply
Erin link
11/20/2019 05:34:07 am

It sounds like Switzerland is a fantastic place to live. Thanks for this interesting insight into living there !

Reply
Mayuri Patel link
11/20/2019 04:03:09 pm

Hoping to visit Switzerland next year. Now I can understand why my cousin who initially moved from London to Geneva for a 2 year job contract has now been there for ten years. A free, clean, safe environment is the best for kids to grow up in. Wishing your family all the best.

Reply
Adriana link
11/20/2019 05:13:08 pm

Ive always heard many great things about Switzerland! So happy that you love living there now

Reply
Sonya Vajifdar link
11/20/2019 07:30:28 pm

WISH I had this option as well ! Would move there in a moment !

Reply
tweenselmom link
11/20/2019 10:52:01 pm

Seems like Switzerland is a nice place to live in. I wish we will have the opportunity to see it.

Reply
Julie Syl
11/21/2019 12:40:46 am

I don't have plans to migrate but reading these facts about Geneva makes me want to spend my entire life here.

Reply
Erik the Hungry Traveller
11/21/2019 05:35:05 am

Good on you and fambam that your moving to Switzerland. My friends recently went there and they absolutely love the place. Safe travels and looking forward to seeing more posts about your life on that amazing country.

Reply
Joanna
11/21/2019 12:25:28 pm

It sounds like Geneva is a perfect city to live in. I would love to be so close to nature, and Switzerland has some of the most amazing mountains in the world.

Reply
Alexis
11/21/2019 04:44:43 pm

Looks like an amazing place to live! I wish you well on your move.

Reply
clare minall
11/21/2019 08:47:40 pm

I have never been to Switzerlandbut I always wanted to visit. Such a wonderful place.

Reply
karin
11/21/2019 08:48:41 pm

It definitely seems worth it to me! What a beautiful place it is! I’d love to visit someday in the future.

Reply
amy
11/21/2019 08:50:36 pm


Such beautiful photos! This is completely and utterly spectacular!
I would love to travel here so much. Thanks for sharing

Reply
elizabeth o
11/21/2019 08:51:50 pm

Oh wow! I’m not sure I could ever leave that place. it is absolutely one of the most gorgeous place I’ve ever seen.

Reply
Sundeep
11/22/2019 11:09:24 am

Switzerland is quiet beautiful and you mentioned some great information about Switzerland which I never heard. I will try to visit Switzerland soon

Reply
Artemis Fannin
12/10/2019 02:39:10 pm

Great job. So thoughtful and well written. It will be a joy to follow you on your journey.

Reply
Christabel
1/11/2020 10:04:25 pm

Thanks for an informative post! Our family has also moved to (just outside) Geneva so it was both interesting and useful for me to read : ) Good luck on settling in to your new home X

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Christel Lautel with son, expat mom living in Geneva, Switzerland

    Author

    The musings of a jeune maman

    Archives

    July 2021
    February 2020
    January 2020
    November 2019
    October 2019
    July 2019

    Categories

    All
    Attachment Parenting
    Baby Food Recipes
    Breastfeeding
    Geneva
    Hula Hoop
    Switzerland
    Things To Do In Geneva

    RSS Feed

Proudly powered by Weebly