With 60% of the population in Switzerland living in rented apartments, (the highest percentage in Europe) many people don’t have access to a garden or even a large outdoor area. For those who can’t plant directly in the ground, don’t worry! Here are some fantastic plant suggestions that are perfect for small balconies or terraces.

Screening Options for Balconies

If your balcony needs privacy from neighbors, the street, or an unpleasant view, plants can be a practical and beautiful solution.

Hedge in a Pot

Consider creating a “hedge in a pot” by selecting smaller versions of hedging plants. One excellent choice is Viburnum tinus “Gwenllian”, a hardy evergreen shrub that:

• Blooms in winter
• Reaches up to 1.5 meters in height and width over time
• Thrives in large containers for many years

Tactical Screening with Japanese Maples

Alternatively, you can use striking plants like dwarf Japanese maples to create a visual focal point while screening your space. A great option for a shady balcony is Acer palmatum “Kagiri-Nishiki”, which features:

• Stunning variegated leaves
• Fiery red and orange foliage in autumn
• A compact size, maturing to just 1 meter tall

Pair these plants with an elegant pot to enjoy year-round beauty and functionality.

Climbers for Balconies

If your balcony lacks space for larger plants, climbers on trellises can provide vertical interest and privacy.

Roses for Balconies

For rose lovers, the Meilland rose “David Hockney” is a perfect balcony plant. This delightful rose features:

• Cream and pink flowers
• Repeat blooms from spring to frost
• A light fragrance and disease resistance
• A manageable height of up to 1.5 meters

This rose pairs beautifully with early-flowering alpine clematis for an extended bloom period.

Fragrant Climbers

If you prefer fragrant plants, the false jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is an excellent choice for containers. Key features include:

• Manageable growth in pots (up to 1.5 meters)
• Varieties like the classic white, Trachelospermum asiaticum “Pink Showers”, or the creamy yellow “Chilli and Vanilla”
• Tolerance for cold temperatures down to -10°C
• Minimal support needs, as it winds naturally around trellises

Discover Gardening Workshops with the Swiss Gardening School

Looking to level up your balcony gardening skills? Visit Hester’s website, Swiss Gardening School, for a range of upcoming workshops! Including:

• Plant Workshops on Pots, Potpourris, and Soaps – February 4th 2025
• Valentine’s Bouquets – February 13th 2025

And much more! Book your spot online via the website.

With these tips and inspiration, even the smallest balcony can become a lush, green oasis. Happy gardening!

If you’re passionate about plants or simply enjoy the magic of transforming spaces with greenery, Hester Macdonald is a name to know. As a garden designer, writer, journalist, and founder of the Swiss Gardening School, Hester has dedicated her career to inspiring gardeners of all levels. Based in Nyon, her school offers short, hands-on courses perfect for amateurs eager to dig in. Discover more about her work at hmgardendesign.com and swissgardeningschool.ch.

The post Create a Green Oasis. Tips on the Best Plants for Small Balconies and Terraces appeared first on Living in Nyon.

January can feel like the longest month of the year—grey skies, chilly weather, and the festive sparkle now a distant memory. But it’s also the perfect time to prioritize you. Shake off the winter blues and step into the warmth of Prestige & Sensation, Nyon’s premier beauty salon, where relaxation and rejuvenation await.

Here are some blissful ways to refresh your body and mind this winter:

The Detoxifying Glow Treatment (DXGlow)

Say goodbye to dull, dry winter skin with this deeply hydrating facial. Powered by boletus extract, organic rowan berry peptides, and hyaluronic acid, this treatment leaves your skin soft, radiant, and luminous after just one session.
Special Offer: 530 CHF for three sessions (normally 570 CHF).

Book your DXGlow session here

Laminat Hair Ritual: Shine All Winter Long

Revitalize your hair with the “lamina” ritual, a luxurious treatment enriched with argan, sesame, and almond oils. This nourishing ritual repairs and hydrates winter-damaged hair, leaving it strong, silky, and beautifully shiny.
Perfect for: Keeping your locks looking fresh even in the coldest months.

Book your Lamina Ritual here

Hands & Feet: Winter-Ready Pampering

Cold weather can be tough on your hands and feet. Treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure that doesn’t just beautify but deeply nourishes. Whether you prefer gel, semi-permanent, or classic varnish, you’ll leave with nails that are perfectly polished and a sense of total relaxation.
Pro Tip: Book a nail appointment alongside your hair service for the ultimate day of pampering!

Book your manicure or pedicure here

Relaxing Massage: Your Winter Escape

Ease the heaviness of winter with a soothing massage that targets water retention, tired legs, and sluggish circulation. Featuring menthol and caffeine, this draining treatment will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
60 minutes of pure relaxation.

Book your massage here

At Prestige & Sensation, every visit is a chance to pause, recharge, and rediscover your glow—even on the darkest winter days. From innovative treatments like the Calligraphy Cut® to bespoke facials and premium nail care, their expert team is here to make sure you feel radiant all year round.

Don’t let the winter blues linger—treat yourself to a well-deserved escape. Contact them at 022 361 12 16 or info@prestige-sensation.ch for bookings or more information. And follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay inspired!

Discover more in our previous article, including their signature Calligraphy Cut®!

The post Beat the January Blues with Luxe Self-Care at Prestige & Sensation appeared first on Living in Nyon.

Living In Nyon has been hard at work behind the scenes with improvements and upgrades on many fronts! More about that very soon…

One of the things we can already share with you is that there will be more opportunities to see each other in person this year.

We kick off the events calendar with a workshop on networking.
Having a strong network, and leveraging it are two different things entirely.

It’s just one of those topics… We know all the theory and the best practices yet its still uncomfortable.

The goal is for us to be smart about, channel our energy into the things that DO work and make it feel more natural.

What we will cover in this workshop:

Alternatives to “classical” networking
Hidden and effective ways to break the networking mould
Bring your authenticity to the table and make yourself memorable
Nurture and stay connected with your network to build stronger relations
Role play learn from each other and have fun in a safe space.

Come ready to play, meet some great people and test the boundaries of your communication skills.

There is an in-person and online option depending on schedules and preferences:

The details for the in person workshop:
Date: 5th of February

Time: 17:30 to 19:30

Location: The B-inspired Clubhouse – Rue Nicole 3, 1260 Nyon

Free registration here
The capacity is limited to 12 people so please be sure to book early!

The details for the online workshop:
Date: 7th of February

Time: 12:30 to 14:00

Free registration here
The capacity is limited to 15 people.

About Mandy Bronsil

She took over the Living in Nyon website in 2020 from Catherine Nelson Pollard, and has actively been contributing ever since!
As the founder of B-inspired Partners, Mandy is a dynamic force in fostering community and collaboration among local entrepreneurs and professionals.

Her workshops and MasterMinds groups offer more than networking—they build lasting connections that fuel personal and professional growth.

With a background in hospitality and extensive experience in recruitment and facilitation, Mandy brings her expertise to university classrooms, training future leaders in professional development, team collaboration, and career planning. Fluent in both French and English, Mandy empowers individuals and team, always with an eye on building strong, supportive communities.

Join us on the 5th of February and meet our wonderful international community in person!
For more English speaking and events hosted by B-inspired have a look at the full events calendar here or join the no-chat WhatsApp group to stay informed as they approach.

The post A Living in Nyon Event – Networking done differently! appeared first on Living in Nyon.

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the music lover in your life? The 48th Paléo Festival Nyon, taking place from July 22 to 27, 2025, has just announced its much-anticipated Christmas sale. With flexible options, this is your chance to secure tickets to the music festival that transforms Nyon into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and community every summer.

Why Paléo Tickets Make the Best Gift

The demand for Paléo tickets is always sky-high — all 200,000 tickets released earlier this year for the 2024 edtion sold out in just 21 minutes! Giving tickets as a gift takes away the stress of securing your spot and guarantees a memorable summer experience.

The sale kicks off on December 3 until December 20 when you can buy:

• 6-day personal passes for those ready to immerse themselves in the full Paléo experience.
• Packs of six tickets to share memorable nights with friends and family.
• Flex vouchers, giving ultimate flexibility to choose your preferred night.

Where to Buy

1. Online on paleo.ch:
   • Limited to 4 tickets per person.
   • Payment options: Visa or MasterCard.
2. At the Paléo Shop (Route de St-Cergue 310, 1260 Nyon):
   • Payment methods: cash, Visa, or MasterCard.
   • Opening hours:
     • Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00 – 12:00 & 13:30 – 18:30
     • Friday: 10:00 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 17:00
     • Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

The Official 2025 Poster

The poster was designed by Chiara Pugliese and captures the unique spirit of Paléo, emphasizing the energy and connection of the audience under the floodlights. This colorful, playful design mirrors the vibrant atmosphere that makes the Festival such a highlight of Nyon’s cultural calendar.

Mark Your Calendar

While the program remains a mystery until March 18, 2025, there’s no doubt it will feature a stellar lineup of international and local talent. Don’t miss the chance to share the magic of Paléo this holiday season.

For more details and opening hours, visit paleo.ch.

The post Unwrap the Magic of Music with Paléo Festival 2025 Tickets for Christmas appeared first on Living in Nyon.

The recent drops in interest rates have been extremely welcome and indeed necessary to keep inflation down and to keep businesses, and people, borrowing in Switzerland.

Thank you to Harriet Kibbe as always for sharing insights with us on the local real estate market.

All the indicators suggest that now is a good time to buy… here are a few reasons why:

Prices:

These have come down considerably since the COVID rush to buy, and there are no forecasts that suggest further drops in listed prices in this area, although the volume of transactions has decreased.

Interest rates:

It is unlikely that the interbank lending rate, or SARON, will drop further, and waiting for it to do so may prove to be a bit too much of a gamble. Now is a good time to lock in a mortgage at 1.45% over 10 years, vastly different from the 3% some homeowners are saddled with from January / February 2024.
And if the above figures don’t seem convincing enough, last but certainly not least, the psychological aspect of selling in the autumn months cannot be underestimated.

End of year slump:

Owners whose properties have been on the market for a while and have not sold are more open to negotiating their asking price, with the tantalising prospect of starting the new year afresh, both on the personal front and the fiscal one.

The market is small in the Geneva area and those of us in the business know that it takes some time for buyers to realize that they will not have a great amount of stock from which to choose their future home and that some concessions will have to be made. I would highly recommend those concessions not being the purchase price or the mortgage rates!

Harriet has lived in the Geneva-Nyon area on and off since 1988, growing up as part of the transient international community. Having moved several times, she has always offered her help to newcomers and people from the international community navigate the local property market. You can connect with her on LinkedIn here and feel free to ask any questions you might have.

Read some of Harriet’s past articles here on how to manage your property or the local trends in construction. 

The post How did La Rentrée go for the property market this year? appeared first on Living in Nyon.

If you’re passionate about plants or simply enjoy the magic of transforming spaces with greenery, Hester Macdonald is a name to know. As a garden designer, writer, journalist, and founder of the Swiss Gardening School, Hester has dedicated her career to inspiring gardeners of all levels. Based in Nyon, her school offers short, hands-on courses perfect for amateurs eager to dig in. Discover more about her work at hmgardendesign.com and swissgardeningschool.ch.

With December just around the corner, now is the perfect time to embrace the joy of crafting and gardening with these festive workshops.

Upcoming Workshops at the Swiss Gardening School

Home Made Gifts from the Garden

• Date: November 26, 2024
• Time: 19:30 – 21:30
• Location: Nyon
• Details: Learn how to craft sustainable, seasonal gifts like plantable tags, table decorations, and labels, all inspired by the beauty of your garden.

Christmas Wreath Workshops

• Dates: Starting December 3, 2024
• Location: Nyon
• Details: Step away from the holiday hustle and create your own stunning Christmas wreath in a cozy, creative atmosphere. Whether for your door or as a centerpiece, this hands-on workshop will leave you with a beautiful keepsake.

These workshops offer the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with nature, and craft something truly meaningful.

Gift Ideas and More

For thoughtful presents or end-of-year teacher gifts, the Swiss Gardening School’s Gift Vouchers are a wonderful choice.

A Festive Detour: Bern’s Famous Zibelemärit

Looking for a unique way to kick off the holiday season? Don’t miss Bern’s extraordinary Zibelemärit (Onion Market) on November 25. Starting bright and early at 6:00 AM, this world-renowned event celebrates all things onion with beautifully braided creations, delicious onion-infused treats like breads and chutneys, and even quirky onion-themed souvenirs.

Pro tip: Arrive early and use public transport to enjoy the market without the crowds. The Zibelemärit is a true Swiss tradition and a delightful warm-up to the Advent season!

Looking Ahead

In the new year, Hester will bring even more gardening inspiration with articles on:

• Balcony gardening — whether you prefer edible or decorative plants
• Seasonal planting tips to match every climate
• Small indoor plants perfect for brightening up apartments

No matter your space or style, Hester’s expert advice will help you make the most of your green thumb.

Let your creativity bloom this season! Visit swissgardeningschool.ch for course details and bookings.

The post Gardening Joy with Hester Macdonald: Festive Workshops & More appeared first on Living in Nyon.

As December dates start to fill up with holiday gatherings and year-end celebrations, Nyon is getting ready to bring the festive spirit to life. From magical light displays to vibrant neighborhood events and Christmas markets – here’s everything happening in and around town.

IllumiNyon Events

Immerse yourself in the magic of IllumiNyon with captivating fire and shadow shows, lantern processions, and festive entertainment. Here’s the schedule:

• Tuesday, December 3: Paix District, 16:30
• Thursday, December 5: Cossy District, 16:30
• Friday, December 6: La Redoute Neighborhood Party, 17:00 – Lantern procession, music, dance, and a free buffet
• Tuesday, December 10: Stand District, 16:30
• Wednesday, December 18: Place Bel-Air, 17:00 – Gospel concert and kids’ activities
• December 12–15: Jardin de la Duche, 17:00

Village de Noël on Rue de Rive

From December 12 to 15, Rue de Rive transforms into a charming Christmas Village featuring:

• Artisanal products and local crafts
• Family-friendly activities like face painting, carousel rides, and train rides
• Concerts and a Christmas flea market on Sunday, December 15

Opening Hours:

• Thursday, December 12: 16:00 – 21:00
• Friday, December 13: 16:00 – 21:00
• Saturday, December 14: 13:00 – 22:00
• Sunday, December 15: 08:00 – 18:00

Celebrations in the Centre of Nyon

Event Highlights between Bel-Air Place and St-Martin’s Place:

• Wednesday 18: Fire shows, Gospel concerts, and drinks for all.
• Thursday 19: Santa Claus, face painting, and an obstacle course for kids, followed by a DJ set at Place Bel-Air.
• Friday 20: Outdoor cinema screening of the classic Home Alone (19:00) at Place Bel-Air, followed by a karaoke evening.
• Saturday 21: Ethical craft market, roaming circus shows, and a Silent Disco at Place du Château in collaboration with Usine à Gaz.
• Sunday 22: Santa Claus will be making an appearance and distributing gifts, plus there will be stories for children and pony rides.

Christmas Market:

From December Thursday 12 to Monday 22 December, Place Bel-Air will have a large dome, perfect for enjoying drinks in a warm, festive ambiance, complete with bar and restaurant spaces and a charming carousel. You will also be able to shop at the Christmas Market, open at Place St-Martin and Rue de la Gare on the following dates:

• Tuesday, December 17  15:00 – 20:00
• Wednesday, December 18 15:00 – 20:00
• Thursday, December 19  15:00 – 22:00
• Friday, December 20 15:00 – 22:00
• Sunday, December 22 15:00 – 20:00

Other Highlights

• Operation Sapin Solidaire (Dec. 6–18): Make a child’s wish come true by participating in this meaningful Christmas tree initiative at Place Bel-Air.
• Late-Night Shopping: Shops will stay open until 22:00 on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 December, with family businesses open on Sundays 15 and 22 December.
• Free Public Transport: Enjoy free TPN urban transport on late-night shopping evenings.

For more detailed information and to stay updated with all the festivities visit the City of Nyon’s site here.

The post Lights, Festive Delights and Christmas Magic in Nyon this December appeared first on Living in Nyon.

Your Insurance Check-Up and Why November Matters

As the days grow colder and the year winds down, it’s time for your friendly reminder: November is Switzerland’s insurance review month. Whether you’re chasing better deals or adjusting your coverage, now is the time to act.

In previous articles, we’ve shared tips on how to simplify your insurance journey and also a guide on basic insurance to maximizing your 3rd pillar pension plan. Now, with the help of our good friends at Generali, we’re diving into more ways to keep your premiums in check and safeguard your peace of mind. Remember, advisors like Cheyen Caron are ready to guide you, ensuring you find the best options tailored to your needs.

Car Insurance: Time to Put the Brakes on Premium Hikes

If your car insurer is raising premiums for 2025 (as several have announced), you have the legal right to cancel your policy within 30 days of receiving the notice. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop around and potentially secure a better deal—one that leaves you with more funds for fun road trips instead of insurance bills!

Health Insurance: Don’t Let Savings Pass You By

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to let your health insurance auto-renew without a second thought. But with LaMal (basic health insurance) premiums rising, here’s your reminder to check your mail and consider shopping for a better deal.

Did you know? All basic health insurance offers identical coverage, no matter the provider. The difference is in the price! Here’s how you can take advantage:

• Compare offers from other insurers to find savings.
• Explore alternative coverage models tailored to your needs at a lower cost.

With the November 30th deadline for 2025 approaching, take a moment to review your options—it’s your chance to make your insurance work harder for you.

Bundle Up Your Policies and Save

Why have your car, home, and health policies scattered across different insurers when you could score discounts by bundling them? Many companies offer combination reductions when you consolidate your policies under one roof. It’s a simple way to streamline your coverage while saving money. Ask your advisor for a comparative quote—you might be pleasantly surprised!

Mind the Gaps in Retirement and Disability Coverage

Retirement planning isn’t just about having enough to sip cocktails on a beach someday—it’s also about making sure your family is protected if the unexpected happens. A 3rd pillar policy can help supplement your income in retirement and cover long-term disability or death. Many families don’t realize the gaps in their coverage until it’s too late. So, take a moment to consult with a specialist and ensure you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way.

Legal Protection Insurance: Your Affordable Safety Net

Let’s face it: legal issues can be expensive (an average of CHF 500+ hourly lawyer fees!). Legal protection insurance ensures you’re covered for court and attorney fees while giving you access to legal advice when you need it. From landlord disputes to workplace disagreements or issues with neighbors, this coverage has your back.

And here’s the best part: Generali is offering 25% off your first-year premium if you’re already a client, or CHF 50 off for new clients! It’s an easy way to protect yourself from the unexpected—without breaking the bank.

By combining these strategies with Generali’s expert advice, you can simplify your insurance and ensure it works smarter for you. Ready to get started? Contact Cheyen Caron and the team today for personalized guidance—it’s never been easier to make confident choices for your future.

• Cheyen Caron
• Direct Line: +41 76 357 49 07
• General Line: 0800 881 882
• Email: cheyen.caron@generali.com 

The post November Insurance Tips to Help you Save Big with Generali’s Expert Advice. appeared first on Living in Nyon.

It’s time to add some magic to your December plans and prepare for the annual pantomime by the Geneva Amateur Operatic Society (GAOS). A beloved tradition and seasonal highlight for families and theatre lovers across the Geneva and Vaud region, this year promises to be no exception with Aladdin by Tom Whalley. The show will dazzle audiences from December 6th to 8th and 12th to 15th at the Théâtre de Marens in Nyon.

What’s a Panto, You Ask?

If you’ve never been to a pantomime, you’re in for a treat. A blend of hilarious antics, catchy songs, fabulous dances, and jokes galore, with giggles for the kids and winks for the grown-ups. Picture a larger-than-life Dame, a dastardly Villain you’ll love to boo, and endless audience participation—singing, shouting, and cheering are all part of the fun. All this delightful chaos unfolds around a classic fairy tale, reimagined with wit and sparkle. Think enchanting tales, over-the-top costumes, and laugh-out-loud moments—perfect for festive fun!

A Sneak Peek into Aladdin

This year’s production takes you to the bustling land of Marrakech, where you’ll meet:

• Aladdin, the penniless dreamer who longs to marry Princess Jasmine.
• His lovable (and slightly clumsy) brother Wishee Washee.
• Their flamboyant, man-hungry mother, Widow Twankey.
• The dastardly villain Abanazar, who will stop at nothing to claim the magical oil lamp and become the Master of the Universe.

Will Aladdin prove himself to be the “chosen one” and outwit Abanazar? Can true love conquer all? There’s only one way to find out—grab your tickets now!

Don’t Miss Out

Tickets are selling faster than a flying carpet in turbo mode, so don’t delay! Get yours here. Whether you’re a panto pro or a first-timer, Aladdin promises to be a magical show. Get ready to shout, “It’s behind you!” – we’ll see you there!

The post Take a Magic Carpet Ride to the Théâtre de Marens for Aladdin with GAOS. appeared first on Living in Nyon.

Are you vegan or curious about vegan cuisine? Join the upcoming vegan cooking workshop!

The B-inspired community unites English speaking entrepreneurs and professionals. This vibrant and talented group of people provide our city with a wide range of workshops between them, each showcasing their expertise and thereby helping each other grow and network in a much more targeted way.

Read more about the MasterMinds in our previous Living in Nyon article here if you missed it.

Monday the 28th of October between 09:00 and 13:30 they are holding a vegan cooking class at the Ecole Club Migros.
This workshop is hosted by Chef Tosca who is on a mission to show the world that Vegan food is delicious!

Whether you’re vegan or simply curious about plant-based cooking, this workshop will open your eyes (and taste buds) to the endless possibilities of vegan food. You’ll learn how to create delicious, wholesome dishes that are good for you and the planet.

Join us for a hands-on experience where you’ll master techniques for making nutritious, flavourful vegan meals. And the best part? We’ll finish the workshop by enjoying a delicious lunch together, enjoying the dishes we’ve prepared.
Get inspired with Tosca’s Instagram profile here.

Details:
Monday 28th of October 09:00-13:30
Ecole Club Migros Kitchen
CHF75 for non MasterMinds members (including lunch)
Register here (subject to availability)
You will receive all the logistical information in your confirmation email.

Curious to see what else is on the B-inspired events calendar, have a look for the full overview here, or join the Upcoming Events WhatsApp group to stay informed here.

The post Join the Vegan cooking workshop on the 28th of October! appeared first on Living in Nyon.