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How to fill in your ballot without second-guessing yourself By now, your voting envelope may already be sitting on the kitchen table. Inside: multiple ballots, party lists, blank lines, and instructions that can feel... a little overwhelming at first glance. If you’ve ever opened a Swiss voting envelope and thought, “Right. Let me have a coffee before I tackle this.” (Definitely me.) You’re not alone. In Part I , we covered who can vote and the key dates for this spring’s municipal elections. In Part II, Bob Jenefsky walks us through the practical side: how to actually complete your ballot for the Nyon City Council and Municipalité without accidentally invalidating your vote. It’s not as complicated as it looks once you understand the logic behind it. Here’s how it works. Living in Nyon holds no affiliation with any political party. We offer space for candidates to share their perspectives for our readers. What’s in your voting envelope? If you are entitled to vote in the next round of municipal elections on Sunday, March 8, you will already have received your voting envelope. Inside, you’ll find slightly different materials depending on your status. If you are Swiss , your envelope includes: A booklet of ballots for the election to the Nyon City Council A ballot for the first round of the election to the Nyon government ( Municipalité ) A ballot for the cantonal by-election of a member of the cantonal government ( Conseiller·ère d’Etat ) A ballot for the federal referendum Official explanatory brochures If you are a non-Swiss resident eligible to vote , you will receive: The ballots for the Nyon City Council The ballot for the Nyon Municipalité In the sections below, we’ll focus on how to complete the two Nyon municipal ballots. Nyon City Council Election On March 8, voters will elect all 100 members of the Nyon City Council in a single go. This election is based on proportional representation . In simple terms, each party receives the number of seats that reflects its share of the total votes cast. Each voter has 100 votes (called “suffrages”)  to distribute, corresponding to the 100 seats to be filled. In your envelope, you’ll find: 7 numbered ballots (one for each party, see table below) 1 unnumbered ballot with 100 blank lines Photograph @ Michel Perret. Ville de Nyon Here’s how it works. Option 1: Vote for one party list as it stands You can give all 100 of your suffrages to a single party by simply placing one of the printed party ballots in the envelope without making any changes. In that case: The party receives 100 suffrages. Each candidate on that list receives one suffrage. Option 2: Support specific candidates on a party list If you are using a printed party ballot, you can personalise it slightly. You may: Write a candidate’s name a second time (but not a third). That candidate will receive two suffrages. Cross off the names of candidates you do not wish to support. In both cases, the party still receives 100 suffrages in total. How seats are allocated After voting closes on March 8, all suffrages are counted. Each party’s total suffrages are compared to the overall number of suffrages cast. Seats are then distributed proportionally. For example, if a party receives 22% of the total suffrages, it will receive 22 of the 100 seats. Once this has been established, the number of votes per candidate is tallied to determine which of the candidates actually get the seats, beginning with the candidate with the most suffrages . What if you want to vote across party lines? If you like candidates from more than one party, you have two options. Option 1: Use the blank ballot You can take the blank ballot and write in up to 100 candidate names by hand (including candidates whose names you’ve entered twice). A few important rules apply: You may only vote for official candidates (those listed on the 7 printed party ballots). Each party receives one suffrage for each of its candidates you include. If you list fewer than 100 names, you may also write the name and number of a single party in the upper right-hand corner of the ballot. That party will then receive the remaining suffrages needed to bring your total to 100. For example, if you write in 60 candidate names and indicate a party in the corner, that party will receive the remaining 40 suffrages. Option 2: Start with a printed party ballot and modify it You may also begin with one of the printed party ballots and then add candidates from other parties. In this case: For every candidate you add from another party, one suffrage is deducted from the 100 originally allocated to the party whose printed ballot you are using. The added candidate receives one suffrage for their own party. Important reminder Place only one City Council ballot in the envelope. Including more than one will disqualify your vote. Photograph @ Michel Perret. Ville de Nyon Election to the Nyon Municipalité (First Round) The election to the Municipalité works differently from the City Council vote. This is a majority election , not a proportional one. You will receive a single ballot listing the candidates. You may select up to seven candidates , as there are seven seats to be filled. Important rules: You may not choose more than seven candidates. You may not write a candidate’s name twice. If you select more than seven names, your ballot will be disqualified. In this first round, candidates obtaining the absolute majority of votes cast are elected. If not all seven seats are filled in the first round (which is often the case), a runoff election will take place on Sunday, March 29 , and the remaining seats will then be decided by relative majority. Be an informed voter! If you’d like to learn more about the parties and candidates standing in Nyon, you can find profiles and official information on the City of Nyon website at www.nyon.ch . Party representatives are also present on Saturday mornings at Place St-Martin . It’s an opportunity to ask questions, exchange views, and, yes, occasionally pick up a bit of cool swag along the way. Municipal elections shape everyday life in Nyon, from local schools and public spaces to transport and community services. Taking a few minutes to understand how your ballot works helps ensure your vote reflects your intentions. Happy voting on March 8. Robert (Bob) Jenefsky is an elected member of the Nyon City Council and president of the Parti Indépendant Nyonnais (www.independant.ch) . He is also co-founder of Nyon Business Forum, a business networking group established in 2017 ( www.nyonbusinessforum.ch ). Bob holds a PhD in Physics from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne (EPFL).

What you need to know before voting this spring Local elections in Switzerland can take a bit of getting used to. The different councils, distinct voting systems, and several rounds across multiple dates. If you’re new to Vaud (or voting here for the first time), it’s easy to get lost in the details. That’s why we asked Bob Jenefsky , longtime Nyon resident and all-round election explainer to walk us through what happens during the municipal election cycle. In this series, Bob will explain everythig you need to know so you can feel confident when your voting envelope arrives. Below, Part I covers the essential dates, who can vote, and what to expect this spring 2026 . Local Elections Sunday, March 8, 2026 marks the first round of the next local election cycle in the Canton of Vaud.  Swiss citizens and eligible non-Swiss residents will be asked to vote for their representatives to their city or village councils ( Conseil communal or Conseil general ) as well as the members of their communal executive ( Conseil municipal , usually abbreviated Municipalité , including the mayor ( syndic )).  It’s a somewhat complicated process which can appear daunting to first-time voters (and even to more experienced voters, as some aspects of  the voting system occasionally change from one election to the next!).   Living in Nyon has asked me to break my description of the process down into bite-size chunks to prevent information overload, so please let me know if I’m succeeding as well as sending any specific to questions to me c/o “Living in Nyon”. Either pop them in the comments below or email them at livinginnyon@gmail.com   Key Dates   Sunday, March 8, 2026: -Election of city/village councils (proportional vote) -First round of election of city/village municipalités (majority vote)   Sunday, March 29, 2026 -Run-off election of city/village municipalités (majority vote)   Sunday, April 26, 2026 -First round of mayoral ( syndic ) election (majority vote)   Sunday, May 17, 2026 -Run-off mayoral ( syndic ) election (majority vote)   Voters receive their voting material about a week before each election and can return their completed ballots by mail or in person anytime up to the Sunday deadline (exact times vary by commune ).   Who can vote?   -Swiss citizens over the age of 18 on the date of the election -Non-Swiss citizens with “B” or “C” permits who have resided in Switzerland continuously for the past 10 years and in the Canton of Vaud continuously for the past 3 years.   If you’re eligible, you will automatically receive the voting material.  In case of doubt, contact your local city or village administration ( greffe communal ).   In the next article, we’ll discuss the details of the voting process.    Robert Jenefsky Robert (Bob) Jenefsky is an elected member of the Nyon City Council and president of the Parti Indépendant Nyonnais (www.independant.ch) . He is also co-founder of Nyon Business Forum, a business networking group established in 2017 ( www.nyonbusinessforum.ch ). Bob holds a PhD in Physics from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne (EPFL).

With Switzerland set to abolish the imputed rental value, what does this mean for homeowners in practical terms? To help us make sense of it all, we turned to our go-to translator of tax language, Alex Clarke at Albatross Group, to break down what we know so far and what to consider next. Real Estate Update: Abolition of the Imputed Rental Value What it means for homeowners in Switzerland On September 28, 2025, Swiss voters approved the abolition of the imputed rental value with 57.7% voting in favour. The reform is expected to come into force no earlier than January 1, 2028. It's important to note that at this stage, only the federal direct tax component has been approved. The cantons, including Vaud, still need to to determine their own position regarding the exact tax treatment at the cantonal level. Does this apply to you? This concerns you if you: Own your primary residence in Switzerland Are planning to buy a home We are not covering rental properties here. A separate update will follow once more information is available. Key words to understand The imputed rental value is a notional income that homeowners must declare for the home they live in, as if they were renting it out. Even though no rent is received, this amount is added to taxable income. The idea behind it was to create equal tax treatment between homeowners and tenants. Who benefits most? Homeowners of relatively new properties, since they incur very low maintenance costs. New buyers benefit from the planned deduction of debt interest for first-time purchasers Homeowners who have largely repaid their mortgage, particularly retirees. Who may be disadvantaged? Owners of older properties in need of renovation works Those planning substantial renovation works after 2028 In simple terms, if your annual mortgage interest and annual average renovation costs exceed your imputed rental value, the new law would be beneficial for you. Each situation, however, should be assessed individually. What changes? Mortgage interest deduction Debt interest will only be deductible on a limited basis, through a special deduction for first-time buyers of their primary residence. Interest will be capped at CHF 10,000 per year for a couple in the first year Reduced on a linear basis each year, over a ten-year period Renovation and maintenance costs These will no longer be tax-deductible for owner-occupied properties, except for costs relating to: Energy-saving Demolition All the changes mentioned above apply at the federal level. The cantons have not yet clarified the exact deductions that will be permitted at the cantonal level. What to consider now? For planned renovations, homeowners should quickly assess whether it makes sense to bring certain works forward, in order to still benefit from tax deductions during this transition period. Final thoughts If you own both rental property and your own home, running a financial simulation is the best way to understand the potential impact of the reform. Keep in mind that it is still too early to assess the full consequences, as the cantons have not yet fully defined the exact rules. For now, if you are planning renovations, it may be wise to carry them out while deductions are still available. At Albatross , we can help you identify which renovation expenses remain tax-deductible and in planning strategically during this transition period. Alex Clarke @ Albatross

Artists and cultural creatives connected to Nyon, take note. For the fifth consecutive year, the Fondation pour les arts et la culture de Nyon (FAC) has launched its annual call for projects, offering a total of CHF 30,000  in financial support for artistic creation in 2026. The competition is open to Swiss artists and artists residing in Switzerland, across all artistic disciplines; from visual arts and performance to music, literature, theatre and beyond. A project rooted in Nyon To be eligible, submitted projects must have a strong connection to Nyon or the surrounding region. The work must also be specifically designed for this competition. The call is open to individual artists as well as associations and foundations, and there are no age restrictions. What matters most is originality, quality and a meaningful local link. The aim is not only to fund creative work, but to encourage projects that contribute to Nyon’s cultural life and remain accessible to the wider community. Supporting culture, year after year Founded in 2010, the Fondation pour les arts et la culture de Nyon (FAC) plays an important role in strengthening the city’s artistic scene. Acting as a bridge between cultural and economic actors in the region, the foundation supports the creation, production and dissemination of original works anchored in Nyon. Each year, its competition provides both financial backing and visibility, with the winning project announced during an official ceremony at Usine à Gaz. For many artists, it’s an opportunity not only to secure funding, but also to connect more deeply with the local community. Key dates Application deadline:  3 April 2026 (midnight) Funding available:  CHF 30,000 (awarded to one or more projects) Announcement of winner(s):  10 June 2026 at the Usine à Gaz Applications must be submitted electronically. Full details, eligibility criteria and submission guidelines are available on the FAC website: fac-nyon.ch An invitation to create Nyon has long been known as a festival and culture town. Initiatives like the FAC Competition help ensure that creativity continues not only through major events, but also through local artistic projects that grow from within the community.

Just when winter starts to feel a little long, Les Hivernales  returns to remind us that festival season in Nyon doesn’t only belong to summer. From 26 February to 1 March 2026 , the much-loved winter festival returns for its 16th edition, bringing live music, DJ sets and performances to venues across Nyon and nearby Gland. @les Hivernales Live music across multiple venues Over the years, Les Hivernales  has become something of a winter ritual for locals. It’s not just about big stages and headline acts. It’s about hopping between venues, meeting friends for a drink, discovering a new artist by chance, and feeling the town come alive despite the cold. Concerts take place in familiar spots including the Salle Communale, Usine à Gaz, La Parenthèse, Backstage Pub, Fishermen’s Pub and La Plage. Most venues are within walking distance, which makes the whole experience feel connected and easy (just how we like it!) What to expect this year This year’s edition promises an eclectic programme that celebrates both established names and emerging talents. The Line-Up 2026  features artists and acts including Blaise Bersinger, Charles Nouveau, FORMA, Jeremy Crausaz, Etienne Machine, Katavia, TAFTA, Âme DJ, Black Space, Trikk, ChauFAU, Lulu Van Trapp, Colour of Rice and many more. From Thursday night’s Comedy Club kick-off  to lively concerts throughout Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Les Hivernales  offers a mix of styles and atmospheres, ideal whether you’re dancing the night away with friends or exploring new music with family. The festival’s programming spans paid and free events, making it accessible for people with varied interests and budgets. And beyond the music, Les Hivernales  is known for its social and environmental approach, creating a warm, communal experience right in the middle of winter. Practical info for visitors Dates:  26 February – 1 March 2026 Venues:  Multiple locations in Nyon and Gland Tickets:  Available through the festival’s official booking site here Getting around is simple: most venues are within walking distance of Nyon’s train station, and there are bike and car parking options nearby. Food trucks, warm drinks (including the festival’s famous rhum-pomme chaud) and a friendly village atmosphere make it a great outing for locals and visitors alike. Situated early in the cultural calendar, Les Hivernales  sets the tone for the festival season in the Nyon region and contributes to the town’s identity as a Ville de festivals  alongside events like Visions du Réel, Caribana, Rive Jazzy, Paléo and far°.

With local elections approaching, we sat down with Dr Ariane Schwab Hug to discuss her journey into politics, the priorities she’s focusing on in Nyon, and why voting matters for both Swiss and non-Swiss residents. Dr Ariane Schwab Hug, a child psychiatrist and member of the Green Party, was elected to Nyon’s Conseil communal in 2021 and is running again this year. Living in Nyon holds no affiliation with any political party. We offer space for candidates to share their perspectives for our readers. Dr Ariane Schwab Hug What inspired you to get involved in local politics in Nyon? My path into politics has not been a typical one. I have always respected our political system and made sure to vote, but I never imagined becoming actively involved until I fully understood the seriousness of the climate crisis. In 2019, something changed for me. I saw young people taking to the streets, demanding political action on climate issues. It was a wake-up call. I realised I could no longer just watch from the sidelines. I feel that my generation and those before us, share a great responsibility for the current state of the planet. It didn’t feel right to leave this burden to younger generations. I am a mother, and I worry about the future of my children and potential future grandchildren. I am also a child psychiatrist, and I see every day how deeply a child’s development is shaped by their environment. For me, it became clear that protecting our environment also means protecting our children’s future. That is why I decided to join the Green Party and contribute at the local level. I have discovered many inspiring citizen initiatives around the world, including those featured in the documentary Tomorrow (2015) Demain , that give me hope. Even if international decisions often move too slowly, there is still a great deal we can do locally. Local choices can directly improve quality of life and help communities become more resilient in the face of future challenges. I was elected to the Conseil communal of Nyon in 2021 and am running again this year. What would you say to eligible Swiss and non-Swiss voters about why it’s important for them to take part in this local election? Taking part in local elections means choosing your municipal authorities and deciding which political direction you want to see guiding the community for the next five years. As an expat living in Nyon, you pay taxes. A large part of the municipal council’s work involves deciding how public money is spent. Voting is therefore essential if you want to have a say in how your tax contributions are used and what priorities should guide local spending. Over the past five years, serving on the municipal council has shown me how close some votes can be, often involving several million francs of public funds. In these cases, the number of seats held by each party can make a real difference. This is why every vote truly matters. Each individual ballot has the potential to influence important decisions. Voting for the first time can also feel like discovering a new and sometimes complex political system, one that is deeply rooted in Swiss culture. But participating is also a powerful way to integrate, to better understand how your municipality works, and to stay informed about what is happening in your local community. What are the issues you are most focused on in Nyon right now? Together with my colleagues from the Green Party, we are strongly committed to the responsible and efficient use of resources. Beyond the development of renewable energy, which has seen significant growth in recent years, partly thanks to Green initiatives - there is also the crucial issue of water management. We recently voted on a new regulation, fully aware that water will become an increasingly precious resource and that we must avoid wasting it. Mobility is another key concern. How can we ensure that different modes of transport coexist smoothly, while encouraging more environmentally friendly choices such as cycling, walking, and public transport? In a town that is growing rapidly, this is a sensitive issue that many residents experience in their daily lives. It is becoming increasingly urgent to develop a truly connected and safe cycling network within the municipality, so that this popular and sustainable form of transport can grow under the right safety conditions. Urban greening is also a major challenge for the coming decades. Moving toward the concept of a “sponge city”- designed to absorb rainwater naturally and reduce heat, is essential. Although progress has been made, our tree canopy coverage still falls short of our targets for effectively combating urban heat islands. Finally, we would like to strengthen the sense of community across the city. This means bringing more life to peripheral neighbourhoods and promoting urban planning that includes green spaces, local services, and meeting places within walking distance of home. I believe these issues concern every resident of Nyon, whether Swiss or foreign national, because local politics shapes the city we live in. The consequences of local political decisions are concrete and visible in everyday life, regardless of the colour of your passport. We’re grateful to Dr Ariane Schwab Hug for taking the time to share her experiences with our Living in Nyon community. Thank you. A reminder for our community Local politics directly shapes daily life from transport and schools to green spaces and public spending. As Nyon heads toward elections, understanding the perspectives of different candidates helps residents make informed choices. For eligible voters, getting familiar with the issues and having your voice heard can make a real difference locally. A snapshot of the 2026 Nyon local elections as they stand The number of candidates for the Municipalité and Conseil communal, as well as how many people are representing each party. For more information visit Ville de Nyon And if you are a local candidate or community voice with something meaningful to share with Living in Nyon, we welcome you to get in touch.

What if you could swap skills instead of money? What if an hour of dog walking, language practice, tech help, gardening, childcare or simply companionship were all valued equally? That’s the idea behind the Nyon Time Bank , a new bilingual community project currently taking shape in Nyon. The initiative is being developed by Sophie Evans, a Nyon resident who believes that community support doesn’t always need to involve money, just time and willingness. The initiative has already received support through the Prix du développement durable de la Ville de Nyon , having been awarded the Prize of Encouragement and received 2,500 Swiss francs to support its development. A welcome boost for a project rooted in local connection and mutual support. Copyright @ Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon. Sophie Evans (centre) So, what is a time bank? A time bank is a simple exchange system where people trade time instead of money. For every hour you help someone, you earn one time credit. You can then use that credit to receive help from someone else. One Hour = One Credit. It doesn’t matter whether you’re offering language conversation, gardening support, help with errands, childcare, tech assistance, or practical tasks around the home. Every contribution is valued equally. It’s not about professional qualifications or market rates. It’s about sharing what you can and asking for what you need. A community built on skills and enjoyment One of the most refreshing parts of the concept is that it encourages people to offer what they genuinely enjoy doing. For example, Sophie admits that, somewhat unusually she loves darning socks and running errands around Nyon on her e-bike. That’s something she’d happily offer. On the flip side? She’s on the lookout for someone willing to teach her how to crochet and knit socks. (Nice socks matter.) It’s this balance of practical support and shared interests that gives a time bank its warmth. It’s not just transactional. It’s relational. Why Nyon? In a town like Nyon, where many residents come from different countries and backgrounds, a bilingual time bank has the potential to strengthen connections across generations, cultures and neighbourhoods. It offers: A way to meet people beyond your usual circles Support without financial pressure A sense of belonging and shared contribution Practical help for everyday life And perhaps most importantly, it reinforces the idea that everyone has something valuable to offer. If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, simply send an email to Sophie at Evanssophieann@gmail.com to express your interest and be kept in the loop about upcoming information sessions for potential member. Sophie Evans

Big news for Nyon. The Paléo Festival Nyon is starting 2026 with two major announcements: the launch of its own solar farm AND being named Best Major Festival  at the European Festival Awards. As the festival prepares for its 2026 edition (Tuesday 21 – Sunday 26 July) and looks ahead to its 50th anniversary in 2027, Paléo is reinforcing both its international reputation and its long-term sustainability ambitions. A Solar Farm Next to the Festival Site From this year, Paléo will quite literally run on sunshine. Located right next to the festival grounds, a new solar installation made up of 261 photovoltaic panels  now produces more than 100,000 kWh per year . This covers around 50% of the Festival’s electricity needs  for one edition. To put that into perspective: It’s eight times the energy required by the Grande Scène during one festival. It represents the equivalent of around a dozen round-the-world trips in an electric car. It is one of the first initiatives of its kind for a festival in Switzerland. The remaining electricity continues to come from a 100% green energy mix , which Paléo has used since 2006. A Long-Term Project Rooted in the Region The solar farm is the result of several years of development, carried out in collaboration with Swiss company OptimalGo. Started in 2023 and fully operational since January 2026, the installation is designed as a local energy circuit. In practical terms, this means Paléo can produce and consume its own renewable electricity and in the event of surplus, supply it to nearby residents, farmers and small businesses. It’s another step in the Festival’s broader sustainability policy, which in recent years has included: The introduction of reusable tableware (2024) A permanent regional cup-washing facility (2025) “A Greener Festival” certification (2025) A new carbon assessment is also planned following the 50th edition in 2027. Ambiance, Paléo Festival Nyon 2025 — © Paléo / Timon Bachmann Best Major Festival in Europe While investing in sustainability at home, Paléo has also been recognised on the international stage. In January, at the European Festival Awards ceremony held during Eurosonic Noorderslag in the Netherlands, the Paléo Festival Nyon received the Best Major Festival Award . This category is reserved for events welcoming more than 40,000 festival-goers per day. The award recognises outstanding quality in both programming and overall audience experience. After an online vote involving 300,000 participants across Europe, a professional jury selected the winner from ten finalists. For Paléo, the award reflects not only its line-up and organisation, but also the strength of its community: a permanent team, association members, and more than 5,000 volunteers who bring the Festival to life each year. As Daniel Rossellat, President of Paléo Festival Nyon, noted, the distinction above all celebrates “a collective adventure and the exceptional commitment of the entire Paléo community.” Paléo Poster Designed by young artist Garance Allely Looking Ahead to 2027 These announcements come at a symbolic moment. As Paléo prepares its 2026 edition, it is also gearing up for its 50th anniversary in 2027 which is a fantastic milestone for one of Switzerland’s most iconic cultural events. Between energy innovation, international recognition and continued community engagement, the festival is positioning itself not just as a major music event, but as a long-term cultural and environmental actor in the region. For Nyon, it’s a reminder that one of its biggest stages continues to evolve and shine, well beyond the music. With sustainability milestones and a major European award already in hand, attention now shifts to the music. The 2026 line-up will be unveiled in March and expectations are high! Here's the aftermovie of Paléo 2025 Copyright @ Paléo Festival

Remote work has opened up new possibilities. More and more people based in Switzerland are taking on international roles, working for companies abroad, or collaborating with global clients. For many professionals living in Vaud or around Lake Geneva, the idea of stepping outside the Swiss system can feel like a big leap. But one big question often follows: How do you work abroad without giving up the stability and protection that comes with being employed in Switzerland? This is where Numeriq Payroll Services  comes in. The challenge of working for an international employer Let’s say you’re offered a role with a company in the UK, the US, or elsewhere in Europe. It might be fully remote. It might even require occasional travel. Exciting? Absolutely.Simple from an administrative perspective? Not always. Questions quickly arise: What happens to your Swiss social security? What about pension contributions? Health insurance? Tax reporting? Residency status? For many professionals, the idea of losing the Swiss safety net can feel risky. The solution? A Swiss employer of record Numeriq acts as your Swiss employer of record. That means you can work for an international company while remaining employed in Switzerland. In practical terms, this allows you to: Stay enrolled in the Swiss social security system Continue pension contributions Maintain Swiss insurance coverage Keep your Swiss residency status Avoid complex international administrative processes You gain the flexibility of global work without stepping outside the Swiss system. Why this matters Switzerland offers some of the strongest employment protections and insurance benefits in Europe. Remaining within the Swiss framework can mean: Top-tier Swiss insurance coverage (including private hospital options, if applicable) Stability in case of illness, maternity, or unemployment Clear, predictable payroll processes A regular monthly salary Numeriq also manages the administrative side of things, handling payroll, invoicing and compliance with both Swiss and international requirements. That means you receive a consistent monthly salary, even if the international client pays late. Something that can make a real difference when it comes to financial stability. It’s the freedom of international work, without giving up your Swiss safety net. Who is this for? This model can be particularly useful for: Professionals offered roles with companies that don’t have a Swiss entity Consultants or freelancers who want employment stability Remote workers collaborating with international clients Swiss residents exploring career opportunities beyond national borders It allows you to expand your professional horizons without dismantling your existing setup. The Numeriq Team International work, Swiss stability Global work no longer means choosing between flexibility and security. With Numeriq Payroll Services, you can build an international career while staying firmly anchored in Switzerland. If you’re considering a role abroad and want to understand how it could work in practice, visit their sponsor page here to learn more or get in touch.

Pauliina Rasi  is a communications expert, science writer and a nutritional sciences student. She has written this article for Living In Nyon  about health, wellness and eating well helping make everyday life in and around Nyon a little healthier and and easier. A good night’s sleep (and caffeine) isn’t the only option to keep you alert and focused throughout your day. What you put on your plate plays a big role in maintaining productivity and focus. Rushing between meetings, school pick ups and drop offs, work deadlines, events and evening plans. It can sometimes feel that it's adrenaline alone keeping us moving. And yes, the never-ending flow of caffeine in our bloodstreams (what would we do without that?)! But have you ever thought about how big a role what you eat plays, too? In this article, we'll look at the relationship between focus, productivity, mood and food with practical tips to maintain your energy throughout the day.  I’ll also share a few favourite local spots in Nyon for a healthy fueling break. Why your energy rises and crashes during the day While the food we eat is the visible part of nutrition, a lot is happening in the background. Before getting into specific meals and yummy snacks, it helps to understand two key players that influence how steady (or not) your energy feels during the day: glucose and insulin. Glucose , also known as blood sugar, transports energy to our cells, and most of the time, the level of glucose in our bloodstream remains relatively stable. Between meals, your liver works constantly to produce a steady supply of glucose for your body to use for energy .  Your brain and muscles rely on it to function whether you’re going on a brisk hike in the mountains or challenging your neurons to solve a tricky work dilemma. After you eat, insulin comes into play . Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas , and its role, among other things, is to help cells take as much glucose from food and store what isn't immediately needed. Then again, after the job is done, insulin takes a break and lets the liver handle producing glucose for your body until your next meal or snack. Skipping meals and why it backfires While you can’t see these chemicals and organs at work, you’re likely to notice quickly if they get out of balance. Put very simply, two common nutritional pitfalls can knock insulin and glucose off rhythm. Not eating enough or eating too much.  Let’s look at the not-enough issue first. This can happen if you skip a meal, eat too lightly or let too many hours pass between meals. Common examples are skipping breakfast because mornings are rushed, having too light a lunch at your desk (I’ll just grab a quick sandwich) or deciding to power through the afternoon without a snack. During these prolonged breaks in eating, your liver will do its best to keep producing glucose for your body to use as energy. It will do a fine job for a few hours, but after a while, reserves will run low. When that happens, the signs are often subtle at first. You won’t likely faint straight away but you might notice your concentration dipping, irritation creeping in, or suddenly have strong cravings for something sweet like a milk-chocolate Branch! Not likely a sign of acute magnesium deficiency but more about your body asking for fuel. Time to munch lunch (just not too much) On the other hand, eating too much at midday can really affect your productivity. When we eat a big lunch, heavy in carbohydrates and fats (yes, I’m thinking about those Pizza du Jour offers), your body needs to work hard to capture all that glucose. Your body is smart, and in response, the pancreas gets the message and produces more insulin to help with the surge of glucose. But once those insulin and glucose levels drop suddenly it can lead to that afternoon energy drop many of us have experienced. The same pattern can happen with sugary, fatty snacks later in the day. How to keep your energy steady during the day The good news is that you don’t need to understand all the inner workings of your body to keep your energy steady during the day. A few simple nutritional habits can make a real difference. First of all, eat regularly, and try to avoid skipping breakfast. There’s a learning curve to regular eating for sure, but think of it this way: You wouldn’t embark on a long drive without fueling your car first, so give yourself some high-quality fuel at the beginning of the day, too. Secondly, at lunch and dinner, go for a balanced plate containing veggies, fibre-rich carbohydrates and high-quality protein. The official recommendation  is ⅖ of your plate of veggies, another ⅖ of carbohydrates and the remaining ⅕ of protein. If this sounds too mathematical, check below some of my recommendations for places in Nyon that get it right. Thirdly, when feeling peckish, replace the Branches and caracs with fibre and veggie rich alternatives to avoid triggering the glucose roller coaster. My Top Tips for healthy fueling breaks in Nyon Here are my most flavourful tips for snacks and lunches that are both delicious and nourishing: For breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack, Café Ex Machina’s  bircher muesli is worth a small detour. It comes with high-fibre whole oats and seasonal berries and fruit packed with vitamins. The combination will release energy slowly and keep you satisfied for a long while. Happy Bowl  at Place Bel-Air has a seasonal variety of bowls to be tailored to your liking and diet. Go for the quinoa base for more fibre, make sure to add several veggies to your bowl, and you’ve got the right ratio of carbs, protein and veggies almost automatically.  El Salad’s  bowls help you up your veggie intake in a seasonal style, too, with a side of high-quality protein. Oil-based dressings, seeds and nuts contribute to the daily dose of healthy, unsaturated fats. To add spices to your plate, Tanoor’s  buffet-style plates make it easy to combine flavours and health. Just make sure to fill the recommended ⅖ of your plate with varied veggie sides! I hope you enjoy healthy, culinary adventures in Nyon and around! Share your favourite healthy breakfast, lunch or snack spot in the region so other readers can enjoy them, too. Pauliina Rasi

Let’s be honest, tax isn’t everyone’s favourite subject. But luckily, we know someone who, not only enjoys it but knows how to make it work in your favour. If you’re thinking about buying property in Vaud or Geneva, well that’s the exciting part. Thinking about the tax implications? Maybe less so. That’s where Albatross Group  comes in. We’re delighted to welcome this young, bilingual accountancy firm to the Living in Nyon Directory. Based in Gland, Albatross helps both individuals and businesses make sense of their numbers with clear, practical advice. And to kick things off, they’re sharing insights on a hot topic: how real estate investments are taxed in Switzerland . No two tax situations are the same.  The tips below are a useful guide, but for advice that fits your circumstances, it’s best to speak directly with Albatross. Investing in Real Estate: A Tax Perspective Real estate is often seen as one of the most attractive long-term investments in Switzerland. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s worth knowing how the tax authorities in Vaud and Geneva view your investment activity. Why? Because whether you’re considered an ordinary investor  or a professional real estate trader  can have a big impact on your tax bill. Ordinary vs. Professional Management The Swiss tax authorities distinguish between two categories: Ordinary asset management  – typical private investors buying property to generate rental income or secure long-term value. Professional real estate management  – individuals or companies actively trading, flipping, or developing property as a business activity. If your activity is classified as professional , any capital gains are fully taxable as income. That can have significant consequences. How is professional status decided? There’s no single rule. Instead, authorities look at a bundle of criteria, including: Frequency of buying and selling Use of borrowed capital Management of renovations or development projects Building or expanding a portfolio with regular transactions If too many of these apply, it may be smarter to structure your activity as a company from the start, rather than risk being reclassified later. An Everyday Example Take a couple living in Nyon who inherit some funds. They don’t currently own property but decide to buy an apartment to rent out for extra family income. This would generally fall under ordinary asset management . A straightforward investment scenario. Individual vs. Company Ownership When buying property, one of the key decisions is whether to hold it as an individual or through a company. Each option has pros and cons. A. Owning as an Individual Pros Simple to manage with lower administrative and accounting costs Real estate capital gains tax may be lower on privately property if held long term Cons Limited tax planning flexibility Risk of being reclassified as a professional trading in real estate Tax implications Rental income is added to your personal income (a significant impact if you are in a higher tax bracket) Wealth tax applies, based on the property’s tax value (close to market value) Real estate capital gains tax applies upon sale, with rates reducing the longer you hold the property B. Owning Through a Company Pros More options for efficient tax structuring Greater potential for reinvestment and long-term growth Less risk of being treated as a professional trader in real estate Cons Higher setup and operational costs Establishing a Swiss company can take up to three months, which must be factored into planning Why Planning Ahead Matters Buying a new build, taking on a renovation, or adding a rental property to your portfolio - in each case, tax plays a crucial role in shaping your overall returns. Ownership structure, financing method, and timing all make a difference. Planning in advance helps you avoid surprises and get the most from your investment. That’s where Albatross Group , your local accountant in La Côte, can make a real difference. With clear, practical advice and a sharp view of the bigger picture, they’ll guide you through the options and help you choose the structure that works best for your situation. From tax planning to long-term strategy, they’re here to ensure your property investment takes off smoothly. Thinking about a property investment? Start by understanding your numbers. Visit Albatross Group  in our Directory to learn more, or let us know in the comments below if you’d like to see more articles on tax and investment topics. Fly high, with Albatross.

How do networking and a casino-inspired evening come together? With local professionals, wine, chocolate and beer tastings AND bets placed on the origins of the products! Are you ready to play too? 📍 Thursday, 13 November, from 18:00 A-ONE Business Park, Rolle You’re welcome to join the event free of charge. Between Geneva and Lausanne, surrounded by vineyards and Lake Geneva’s calm beauty, A-One has grown into much more than an office location. Once home to major international companies like Nissan Europe, Yahoo! and Chiquita, it has evolved into a vibrant hub for SMEs, start-ups and entrepreneurs who value flexibility, collaboration and quality of life. With its focus on blending business and wellbeing , A-ONE offers modern spaces, easy access, with a strong community spirit, making it an inspiring place to work and  celebrate. This autumn, the croupiers from VINO VEGAS Casino  will bring the tables to life for a playful evening full of laughter, good company, and delicious surprises. It’s the perfect chance to connect with local professionals, discover the space, and toast to new opportunities. 👉 Information and FREE registration here A-ONE also recently hosted our LIN Leadership Panel Event  in September. If you missed it, you can watch the video and catch the highlights below. To stay up to date with upcoming events and community news, sign up for the A-ONE newsletter here. Join in for an evening of networking, a fantastic atmosphere, or to try your luck at the VINO VEGAS tables. One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be a night to remember!