Big News: We’re Geneva-Bound!

We’re writing to share some exciting news: We’re moving to Switzerland.

You read that right… WE’RE MOVING TO SWITZERLAND! In less than a month!

We are relocating our family to Switzerland because Scott has accepted an opportunity at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which is based in Geneva.

After the year we’ve all had, I’m sure that many can relate that there is absolutely nothing more thrilling or invigorating than the idea of a couple years abroad, with all of Europe’s most amazing sights, sounds and tastes so readily accessible. I’ve hardly been able to contain my daydreams of wanderlust now that it’s been ignited once again. I’m learning French (Geneva’s native language) via the Duolingo App and following Switzerland-based Instagrammers with reckless abandon.

NOW, TO ADDRESS SOME OF THE QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE…

WHEN DO YOU LEAVE?

There are still a few things to be worked out but it’s looking like we’re departing on Friday, April 16th.

WHAT ABOUT COVID?

Moving now, while COVID still has its grip on the world, is admittedly a bit daunting. To be far and somewhat cut-off from our families will be challenging. But on the other hand, things seem to improve by the day, at least here in the US. Europe has had some challenges, but hopefully by summer, things should be progressing nicely allowing us to move around safely. And, at the very least, getting to have our treasured “family walks” in the cobbled streets of Old Town Geneva sounds like a nice change of pace after a year of wandering around the winding neighborhoods in Arlington.

WHAT WILL YOU DO FOR WORK?

Luckily, I’ve spent nearly the last 5 years working as a freelance writer and producer. I plan to continue on doing just what I have been, just in a different time zone. If you’ve ever worked with me, you know I work all.the.time. — so I’m sure I’ll be working often on EST hours since that’s conveniently after bedtime!

Oh, and I’m sure it might be especially handy to have a Europe-based producer with a car ready to jump in to facilitate international shoots as needed! (Hint, hint 😘)

WHAT’S GENEVA LIKE?

So, funny thing… I’ve never been to Geneva! But Scott has! In a normal world, we would have planned a quick weekend to scope it out once we knew that we’d be moving there. However, the pandemic has left the internet as my main guide, so we’ve been scouring YouTube videos, Instagram and blogs as our source of information and inspiration. (This one featuring the best Swiss Villages is one of the best videos we’ve found.)

From what I’ve learned, Geneva is a small, walkable city. It’s known more often for its abundance of financial business and international diplomacy rather than its culture. However, it’s very clean and safe and has an abundance of parks and green space. The historic Old Town is gorgeous. Also, it’s located on the beautiful Lake Geneva with the stunning Jet d’Eau fountain as a pretty focal point. All of this makes it feel very accessible and family-friendly — which is just perfect for us right now. (Plus, fondue and chocolate… need I say more?)

Also, Geneva is very centrally located to many places we can’t wait to visit. We’ll have our car and won’t hesitate to go out exploring.

Here are a few places that we can drive to within an hour or so:

Lavaux, Switzerland — a UNESCO world heritage site including walkable, terraced vineyards with epic views of the lake. (1 hour drive)

Gruyères, Switzerland — Cheese (and chocolate) in a picturesque, walkable small-town…? Sign me up! (1.5 hr drive)

Lyon, France — Did I mention Geneva’s right over the border from France? It’s so close, many drive to France to go grocery shopping since it’s much cheaper there. Lyon is France’s 3rd largest city and looks to be a beautiful place for a city break. (1 hr, 45 minutes)

Needless to say, we’ll be putting a lot of miles on our car, “Bernie.”

WHAT DOES “GENEVA JOURNÉES” MEAN, ANYWAY?

As I mentioned earlier, the native language in Geneva is French, and in French “Geneva Journées” literally translates to “Geneva Days.” Both accurate and also appropriate with a little wink to our epic journey as well.

WHAT’S NEXT?

I’m going to try to document our time abroad here as interesting things happen. So stay tuned… more to come soon! Oh, and if you have any tips or travel recommendations for us, please share them in a comment below.