One Month on....

So one month on and our lives have certainly changed. We have settled into life in Geneva now - although its only a temporary one as we will need to move into our own place soon, most likely over the border in France. Vero has settled into her job, adjusting to the new surroundings and working practices.

As for me, despite still being jobless I am very optimistic about my career prospects here. I have managed to get over the stress of my first interview this week and although no work came from it I know I am very employable. I have several applications still pending and they do like to take their time here. I have a good selection of recruiters working on my behalf, looking out for me too, and I am also sending off applications every week. I could go temping immediately however I am remaining patient and focused as I want to find the right job that fits where I want to be with my career.

We have been lucky to have found the time to get out and explore a bit with a trip to the Alps and many nice walks in and around Geneva. That's probably down to the fact we are not pressured right away to find our own place to live however I think that may change in the next few weeks as weekends will start to be taken up viewing property! The decision to buy or rent is a tricky one too...that £/€ rate is not very helpful.

So we celebrated our first month with a trip on the train to the town of Nyon, a few km up the north side of the lake towards Lausanne. Nyon is a small town with a rich Roman history. There were some great looking old buildings however this particular day was (unknown to us) the town's Fete d'Automne and the narrow streets were closed to traffic and crammed full of market stalls and live entertainment. The consequent throng of people meant taking pictures was pretty difficult, however we did manage to find some respite by the Town's castle and found the most amazing spot overlooking the lake and the Swiss, French and Italian Alps (yes all three!). The views were incredible. Here's the pics...


The Chateau de Nyon and a view across the lake to wards Yvoire and Evian


The mountains above Evian and the Mont Blanc

We liked Nyon although if it wasn't for the market there is not really much to do for the day, unless you like museums and shopping. There is a narrow gauge train ride up to the alpine village of St Cergue and into the French Jura which we decided to save for another day. This was mainly because St Cergue had its annual Desalpes going on. This is a festival where they bring the cows down off the mountains into the village so although it would have been nice to see, it would probably mean that the village would be heaving with people too. However, we will be back to try that train ride no doubt, or maybe take a boat trip across to Yvoire on the other side of the lake.

What's good about this area there is so much choice of activity - even for those without transport like ourselves. Its going to be even better when we find a car (once we have moved to France!). Bring it on....