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Be as excited as this guy! © Paléo / Anne Colliard Why Go Solo? Freedom Beats FOMO As the 47th edition of the Paléo Festival wraps up, I've been reflecting on my experiences of attending the festival solo. When I first mention going alone, people react as if I’ve lost my mind and look at me in shock horror. The notion seems to scream “lonely loser” to them. However, having experienced Paléo both solo and with friends and family, I can confidently say I prefer the freedom and flexibility of exploring on my own. When you're with others, you often spend half your time on the phone or texting, trying to locate each other, especially if you plan to meet on-site. You might end up seeing only parts of performances, usually focusing on the headliners, rather than enjoying the full range of artists you’re interested in. Where Are You?! You might settle for food you don’t really fancy because it’s easier to stand in long queues together, rather than splitting up and having to wait for each other and then regroup to eat. It’s a logistical challenge that often means compromising on what you really want to see, eat or do. Sound familiar? I realised that attending alone is actually awesome and I am going to tell you why! Safety & Security at Paléo Let me start by saying that a significant part of my confidence in doing this comes from the fact that Switzerland's environment feels particularly secure, safe, and reassuring. Paléo is also very well-managed with numerous volunteer staff, check points, and an infirmary on site to assist you. The event app also helps avoid ticket scams, a common issue with last-minute sales and resales. The exceptionally well-run transport systems put in place; the buses, trains, and plenty of car parking spaces add to the overall sense of ease. Plus, if you’re staying in Nyon or neighboring villages, jumping on your bike and cycling down to the festival is quick and easy, making for a convenient and enjoyable journey to and from the event. I’m not sure I’d feel as comfortable going alone elsewhere, but the atmosphere here makes it the perfect playground to try. The Belleville Stage (my favourite) The Joy of Freedom and Flexibility You get to create your own schedule and be spontaneous. Want to spend an extra hour at the Village du Monde or catch an unexpected DJ act on the Belleville stage? You can, without needing to coordinate with anyone else or negotiate meeting times. Navigating Paléo on your own builds confidence and is liberating, allowing you to make decisions on the fly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to discover what you truly love—whether it’s the music, the food, or the various cultural exhibits. Deepening Your Musical Experience Fully immerse yourself in the music. I was able to enjoy every moment of Burna Boy’s afrofusion explosion on Day one, the power of Hirma's DJ set, I sang along to the hits of Nile Rodgers and Chic alongside a sea of other fans and sat, on the now very dry grounds, on the last day with the fabulous operatic tenor Roberto Alagna and friends.   Attending solo lets you move freely between stages, discovering new artists, like an abstract band at the Club Tent that you might have missed in a group setting. Paléo’s rich atmosphere—with its diverse cultural areas like the Village du Monde and La Ruche, can be fully appreciated when you're alone. You can take your time to enjoy the art, food, games and cultural exhibits without feeling rushed.  Catching a relaxed show at La Ruche Making New Friends Attending alone doesn’t mean you have to spend the entire night by yourself. Many people reach out on social media looking for others to meet up with. These spontaneous meet-ups can turn into a quick drink or meal, a shared concert experience, or just a friendly check-in that makes the night more interesting and enjoyable.  Being alone makes you more approachable, and you'll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow festival-goers. I met some amazing people while waiting in line for food or just relaxing on the grass between sets. Then I continued on my way. Just before the Sam Smith concert, I saw a guy on the phone clearly struggling to find his friends in the crowd. Another guy, wrapped in unlit fairy lights, approached him and said, "Hey, just tell them to look for me," then lit himself up like a Christmas tree! It was a sweet gesture and a clever way to stand out in the crowd. Others carried balloons or cuddly toys covered with fairy lights, making it easier to spot each other. Solo Tickets = Easier Access Sometimes it’s hard to secure tickets for the whole family or a group, but that shouldn’t put you off from going. Solo tickets are often easier to find last minute, and going alone ensures you don’t miss out on a particular artist just because your friends or family couldn’t get tickets. Put the feelers out and see if you know anyone else going that same night.  Me, behind the scenes taking a break from all the walking! Ready to Embrace the Adventure? Festival season continues this summer and with it, a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the adventure of going solo and make the most of the diverse experiences these events offer. So next time you're considering attending a festival, don’t shy away from going alone. Try Paléo next year because sometimes the best company is your own.”

Meet Jana Bachollet, Owner of Webulous Jana is the website designer behind Living in Nyon’s fresh new look. With a real feel for both design and community, she helped us bring the site to life in a way that feels both modern and true to its roots. We’re incredibly thankful for her skill, care, and patience throughout the process and we’re so happy to have her as part of the extended LIN family. Keep reading to hear what the redesign process was really like AND to find out about the AI website workshop she’s running right here in Nyon. When I first moved to St-Cergue in 2019, just a short train ride up the mountain from Nyon, I did what most newcomers do, I typed “things to do in Nyon” into Google. Time and again, Living in Nyon  popped up, offering the kind of local knowledge you won’t find in any guidebook. It felt like a friend gently pointing me in the right direction towards the best cafés, weekend activities, and local festivals. I didn’t know it then, but those helpful articles were written by people just like me: expats who had fallen in love with this region. Fast-forward to six months ago, when I first met Mandy and Seema to talk about redesigning the website. We clicked straight away (pun slightly intended). Not just because we all got on so well, but because we shared a vision - of a site that feels current, easy to use, and still community-led. Jana Bachollet - Webulous A Few Things I Learnt About Living In Nyon 🔸 It’s not just a blog.  It’s a hub for the international community in and around Nyon, lovingly built to help people settle in and feel at home. 🔸 Since 2008, nearly 2,000 articles have been published , written by just three contributors. That’s an impressive archive of stories, tips, and local knowledge. And yes, migrating all of that from WordPress to Wix was no small feat! Let’s just say it involved some digital puzzle-solving. 🔸 Redesigning a website is never just about tech.  It’s also about getting crystal clear on what the site stands for and what the audience needs. Seema and Mandy had to rethink, reframe, and rewrite sections to better reflect the heartbeat of this community. And they did. The new  site is lighter, faster, and easier to navigate. But more importantly, it still feels like Living In Nyon . Full of heart, full of community, and ready to welcome the next person searching for a place to belong. If you’re new to the area or you’ve been here a while, I hope this site continues to be the friendly digital guide it was for me when I first arrived. – Jana Curious About Building Your Own Website? Jana is running a hands-on workshop in Nyon to show you how to use AI to build a website, and the best part? No tech background needed! Perfect for small business owners, creatives, or anyone with an idea to share. You’ll leave with the first version of your live site. Wednesday, 18 June 10:00–12:00📍 The Clubhouse: Rue Nicole 3, centre of Nyon Bring your laptop 50 CHF Limited spaces 🔗 Subscribe here: www.themorningai.com

@Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 Ever wondered what the dreamy scent drifting from Bois-Bougy is? Now’s your chance to step inside and see what all the blooming fuss is about! On Friday 20 and Saturday 21 June, the stunning rose garden of Bois-Bougy will open its gates for a rare and final public event: the 6th and last edition of Nyon’s International New Rose Competition . Expect 63 never-before-seen brand new-rose varieties, bred by 24 rose creators from 8 countries all over the globe; from France, the U.S. and Japan to Poland, the Netherlands and Switzerland. And yes, you  get to vote for your favourite! What’s This All About? Since 2020, Nyon has hosted a one-of-a-kind rose competition with a twist: no chemical or biological treatments allowed. Only the strongest, most naturally resilient roses make the cut. That commitment to sustainability has earned international respect and made Nyon a quiet pioneer in the world of horticulture. But all good things must bloom and bow. 2025 marks the final year of the competition, and with it, a celebration of the roses that have flourished under these strict eco-standards. When & Where? Friday 20 June, 16:00–19:00 Saturday 21 June, 10:00–14:00 Bois-Bougy Roseraie, Avenue de Bois-Bougy 5, Nyon Meet the specialists , chat roses, and enjoy a friendly apéro. Two lucky visitors will also win a prize in on-site prize draws  happening: Friday at 18:30 Saturday at 13:30 Oh, and did we mention there’s a People’s Choice Award ? Vote for your favourite rose on the day and help crown the 2025 winner. Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 What Happens Next? Though this marks the final competition, it’s not the end for the roses. The best of the best will live on in Nyon’s public parks, spreading their beauty (and scent) across town for everyone to enjoy. And if you can’t make the open days? Don’t worry, the rosegarden will stay open all summer, Monday to Friday, 08:00–16:00. Stop by with a coffee, a camera, or just soak in a moment of calm. Who’s Behind It All? The competition is organised by Les Amis de la Rose de Nyon (LARN) , a passionate local association launched in 2019 to revive Switzerland’s rose competition tradition. Their mission? To celebrate roses, horticulture, and the beauty of shared green spaces. They also host workshops, talks, and rose-related happenings throughout the year, so stay tuned if you’re feeling horticulturally inspired.

Summer is around the corner and what better way to discover Switzerland than by taking a train and exploring this wonderful country. But where to start?   Help is on hand with “Best Swiss Train Rides”, a new book by British author Diccon Bewes. From the legendary Glacier Express, to the picturesque Centovalli and the Grandiose GoldenPass, it also contains 35 other lesser known and surprising trip suggestions including the train journey from Geneva to Brig. Diccon Bewes The book has a large overview map showing all the train trips, individual route maps, practical advice on tickets, choosing the best seats, sights, and stop-overs (Diccon recommends visiting the Château de Nyon among other castles en-route!).   There’s a suggestion of a trip on the Brienzer Rothorn, an historic steam rack railway, which is free to take on your birthday. On the Monte Generoso you can take a train to a mountain top and stand with one foot in and one foot out of the country!   Or how about a less famous, local line train journey where every stop is announced with a string of notes from a harp. These can be heard on the Yverdons-Les Bains to Sainte Croix line.    Below is a glimpse of two pages from the book. The first is of a train ride from Geneva to Brig. It’s true when he says. “At Cully, the lake is so close you can almost reach out and touch it”. The other image is a description of a ride on the St-Bernard Express.     Regular readers will recall that Living In Nyon often held events  in which Diccon came to Nyon to talk about his books on Swiss politics, Swiss maps, Swiss history and travel in Switzerland.    Diccon speaking at an event in Nyon This book has been published posthumously. Diccon sadly passed away in April 2025 in Bern, in his beloved, adopted country. Diccon became Swiss in 2020. He will be much missed.    “The Best Swiss Train Rides” is available in English, German and French.    In French speaking Switzerland, the book is available in Payot, https://www.lelivre.ch   Books, Books, Books in Lausanne,   https://booksbooksbooks.ch   Librairie la liseuse in Sion, Librairie du Baobac in Martigny.   Here’s a link to Diccon’s other books.

@ nyonmusique.ch This year, Nyon’s Fête de la Musique lands right on the summer solstice, Saturday, 21 June 2025 and it’s shaping up to be spectacular! Expect over 200 performers and 40 bands (mostly local talent) spreading joyful sounds across 13 venues, including 6 official stages plus a handful of partner spots around town. A Full Day of Music Across Town Starting at 10 am with kid‑friendly performances (register on the day), the vibe rolls into an open‑jam with bold, fresh sounds in stunning settings across town. From intimate acoustic sets at the Roman Museum to high‑energy performances by Yverdoncore, ADAC and more, there's something for every ear. Spotlight on the Neon Nymph: A Castle Courtyard Spectacle As daylight fades, gather in the Château courtyard at 10:15 pm  for The Neon Nymph Show , a breathtaking fusion of music, projections and light. Created by Magic Licorne Production and artist Fantine Schutz, expect a cyber‑electric evening that gleams under the solstice moon. A Celebration Fueled by Community Organised by the Fête de la Musique Association with support from the City of Nyon and volunteers, the festival is a celebration of local talent, creativity and cultural connection. Whether you're discovering new artists, dancing outdoors or soaking up the atmosphere, it’s truly Nyon at its best. Quick Facts Date : Saturday, 21 June 2025 (Summer Solstice) Time : 10 am to 1 am Locations : 13 venues across Nyon (6 official stages + partner sites) Lineup : 200+ local performers across diverse genres Access : Free concerts all day and night Tip : Full programme here Bring your friends and family AND your dancing shoes, and be ready to celebrate the longest day of the year with an unforgettable soundtrack.

Community Beyond Networking. More than just a networking platform; it’s a dynamic space where entrepreneurs and small businesses can connect, collaborate, and grow. With a focus on meaningful relationships and shared success, it’s the perfect place to find support, inspiration, and fresh opportunities. Email: info@b-inspired.ch Address: Rue Nicole 3, Nyon www.b-inspired.ch

Nyon has taken a significant step to recognise the women who have helped shaped its history by renaming three public spaces after inspiring, influential female figures and collectives. Announced on May 7, 2025, this initiative brings long-overdue visibility to the contributions of women in the town’s history and development. Michel Perret/Ville de Nyon A Walk Through History Parc Alice Sauvin   (formerly Parc de la Morâche) Named after Dr. Alice Sauvin-Thury (1890–1993), one of Switzerland’s first female doctors. She practiced in Nyon for decades, championed public health, supported working women, and campaigned for women’s right to vote. She worked well into her 80s and received the Henri-Dunant medal for her dedication. Sentier Ermance Natthey (formerly Sentier de la Combe) A nod to painter and educator Ermance Natthey (1843–1916), who opened Nyon’s first drawing class for girls in 1869. She played a key role in advancing women’s access to artistic education. Place des Lavandières Located beneath the Esplanade des Marronniers, this square honours generations of laundresses who worked in public washhouses, often under tough conditions, and always with little recognition. From left to right:  Suzanne Dutry (descendant of Dr. Alice Sauvin), Stéphanie Schmutz (Municipal Councillor responsible for Social Cohesion), Marinette Cornelius (also a descendant of Dr. Alice Sauvin), and Catherine Schmutz Nicod (co-curator of the Château de Nyon).   @Michel Perret / City of Nyon / May 8, 2025 More Than Just Names This initiative follows the 2021 proposal “Femmes à côté de la plaque", which called for more inclusive place-naming in Nyon. In response, the municipality launched the Femmes de Nyon historical study and a community engagement project called Pluri-Elles. The Femmes de Nyon, de A à Z  exhibition at the Château de Nyon wrapped up on 18 May 2025. Through 26 verbs, it brought to life the stories of women who shaped the town, past and present. Created with the Dictionnaire des femmes en Suisse , it was a thoughtful tribute to the many Nyonnaises who’ve often gone unnamed in history. Coming Up Senior Women in the Spotlight A photo project for women over 60, run by Association Tokyo Moon. Portraits by Ghislaine Heger will be shown in public spaces this autumn. Register here Film Night C’è ancora domani (Il reste encore demain/ there's still tomorrow ) screens 14 July at 20:30, Cantine de Rive. An Italian film celebrating women's resilience, with French subtitles (no English ones). Lavandières Weekend On 29–30 August 2025, Place des Lavandières will host cultural and artistic events recreating the world of the historic washerwomen. Through these acts of recognition, Nyon is writing a richer, more inclusive history; one that honours all those who helped build it.

Next Living in Nyon event - Tuesday 10th November at 19:30  Diccon Bewes presents his new book -   Around Switzerland in 80 Maps! A map can be decorative or informative, or both, and can reveal geography or history, or both. In fact, it is the perfect pictorial way to explain and entertain. And this collection is no exception. From the circular Swiss island of 1480 to a vision of a Greater Switzerland with 40 cantons, via the oldest map of Lake Geneva, Around Switzerland in 80 Maps takes you on a truly magical and fascinating journey. Living in Nyon is delighted to invite Diccon (author of "Swiss Watching" and "Slow Train to Switzerland” ) back to Nyon for the launch of his latest book on  Tuesday 10th November .This is the first that Diccon will be holding in Swiss Romandie. These talks are very popular so reserve your place soon! The talk will be in English and the book (in both English and French editions) will be for sale (cash only) on the evening. Talk from 19:30 to 20:30 Doors open 19:00 at the *Ferme du Manoir in Nyon at the Place du Château. Entry - 15 CHF includes a glass of wine after the event in the cave of the Château de Nyon Reservations required, cash payment to be made on the evening. Email -   info@livinginnyon.com  and write  "80 Maps" in subject headline. Please state the names of all those attending. *The Ferme du Manoir is very near to the château of Nyon and a short walk to the railway station. Nearby parking at La Duche car park or P lace Perdtemps

All images in this article @Michel Perret "La Table du 10" marks a new chapter for Nyon’s ex-police station! Despite a high interest for the building to be rented as commercial spaces, the Ville de Nyon has favoured a restaurant that will allow people to come together and bring more energy around the chateau area. It has therefore become"La Table du 10", a restaurant that blends history with modernity, creating a place that serves the community while honouring the building’s past. A Vision for Community and Creativity The goal is to create a space that complements the surrounding area, bringing together local businesses and diners in a welcoming atmosphere. Chef Philippe Lehmann brings creativity to the menu, with dishes that highlight local products and flavors. His focus is on providing sustainable, imaginative meals that reflect the best of the region. Preserving History with Modern Design One of the interesting aspects of La Table du 10 is how it balances the building's historical significance with contemporary design. The team of architects preserved the original structure while integrating modern materials. Upcycled flooring and other sustainable design choices not only enhance the space’s character but also contribute to a more eco-friendly atmosphere. A "window into the kitchen" through the mirrored wall lets diners connect with the chefs, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. Quality and Service: A Dining Experience to Remember What sets La Table du 10 apart is its focus on quality service. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the team’s commitment to making every guest feel valued. One of the selection criteria was to choose a partner for this space that was going to put the customer experience and guest service first to ensure guests have a memorable experience. This dedication to quality is seen not only in the food but also in the way the team interacts with guests, ensuring everything is just right. Be one of the first guests! La Table du 10 opens its doors on the 1st of April 2025 (no joke!) Have a look at their website here or jump straight to their menu .

GAOS is back this spring with a daring reimagining of Jesus Christ Superstar and we’ve got 2 free tickets to give away for Saturday 31 May matinee at 14:00 at Théâtre de Marens, Nyon. A Rock Opera Like No Other Love live theatre? Rock music? Epic storytelling? Here's your chance to experience Jesus Christ Superstar  like never before. GAOS (Geneva Amateur Operatic Society) is back again and this time with a bold, modern take on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award winning iconic rock opera. Think powerful vocals, high-energy choreography, and the most famous betrayal in history, reimagined with a contemporary twist. From soaring anthems to intense drama, this show dives deep into timeless themes of faith, fame, power and sacrifice. GAOS’s modern interpretation adds a fresh twist with hip-hop choreography, raw athleticism , and an immersive staging that pulls you straight into the emotional heart of the story As cast member Katerina Akulich puts it: "Jesus Christ Superstar, rock opera, is a true emotional roller coaster—it takes you from laughter in its ironic, even playful moments, to deep sadness as it explores themes of humanity, violence, and betrayal. It’s a bold, unconventional take on one of the most famous stories ever told... This is a rare chance to see such a unique production in Switzerland, especially in the Romandie. If you’ve never seen it before, this is the perfect moment—an unforgettable way to spend your Ascension weekend." So expect drama, passion, and unforgettable music from the show that redefined musical theatre. About GAOS GAOS (Geneva Amateur Operatic Society) is a vibrant English-language theatre company bringing people together through a shared love of musical theatre. Founded in 1971 and run entirely by volunteers, GAOS is known for its top-notch productions and welcoming, international community. They stage three major shows a year: Winter Show A traditional family pantomime in December, full of colour, humour and big casts of all ages. This year’s production is Elf: The Musical. Audition info here Spring Show A large-scale production with live orchestra, like Jesus Christ Superstar. Past hits include Rent, Sister Act, and South Pacific. Youth Show A full-scale musical each August led by performers aged 12–21. This year: Les Misérables. More info here Beyond the stage, GAOS runs workshops, socials, and creative events to build connection, confidence and community through the arts. How to Win 2 Free Tickets We're giving away 2 tickets  for the Saturday 31 May matinee at 14:00. To enter, just answer this question: Who is the lyricist of Jesus Christ Superstar? Click here to enter the giveaway Entries close Tuesday 27 May at MIDDAY. One lucky winner will be drawn at random and notified that afternoon. Good luck! 🎟 Click here for show info & bookings Thanks to GAOS for offering this brilliant giveaway and for continuing to bring high-quality, inclusive theatre to the local community.

Admin Headaches? Not Here. Introducing Living in Nyon’s newest sponsor: Numeriq Let’s be honest, Swiss payroll isn’t exactly exciting apéro conversation. But for expats, freelancers, and international companies working in Switzerland, understanding how it works is essential… and often overwhelming. Social security, pension contributions, tax-at-source, accident cover, contracts, there’s a lot to get right, and even more that can go wrong. That’s why we’re delighted to introduce Numeriq Payroll , our newest Living in Nyon sponsor  and a company doing things a little differently. Based in Geneva, Numeriq specialises in making Swiss payroll simple, compliant, and stress-free, especially for independent contractors and foreign companies. The best part? They do it with a refreshingly human approach. What is Swiss Payroll? In Switzerland, employers are responsible for handling all sorts of contributions on behalf of employees: AVS (social security), pension (LPP), accident insurance (LAA), and taxes (if applicable). If you’re a contractor, or a company hiring one, it’s your job to get all of this right unless you can outsource to a payroll provider. What Numeriq Offers Numeriq operates as an Employer of Record (EOR), employing contractors on behalf of clients. This model ensures full compliance with Swiss labor laws, including social insurance, pensions, and taxes. Whether you're an individual contractor, a Swiss company, or a foreign firm, Numeriq provides a comprehensive payroll solution tailored to your needs. Perks, People & Peace of Mind: The Numeriq Way 1. Premium Accident Insurance In Switzerland, employers are required to provide accident insurance for employees working more than 8 hours per week. Numeriq goes a step further by ensuring that, in the event of an accident, you're entitled to a private hospital room, for more comfort during recovery. 2. Timely Payments Cash flow is crucial, especially when clients have extended payment terms. Numeriq addresses this by ensuring that you receive your salary at the end of each month, regardless of when the client settles the invoice. This approach provides financial stability and peace of mind. 3. They handle the boring stuff for you Numeriq takes care of all the paperwork contracts, insurance, tax deductions social charges so you can focus on doing your thing while they keep things running smoothly behind the scenes for you. You do the work while they do the paperwork. 4. Community Building Being an independent contractor can sometimes feel isolating. Numeriq has built a sense of community among its employees by regular apéros and networking events, affectionately termed "Numeriqos". These gatherings offer opportunities to connect, share experiences, and build professional relationships. 5. Transparent and Responsive Service Numeriq prides itself on delivering excellent and transparent service. Whether you have questions about immigration, social insurance, pensions, or tax-at-source, their team is readily available to provide clear and timely answers, ensuring you feel supported throughout your engagement. How to Get Started. Getting set up with Numeriq is simple: 1. Get a Simulation : Use their online tool or schedule a call to discuss your payroll needs. 2. Define Contract Terms : Provide necessary details to create your employment contract. 3. Onboard via the Platform : Complete the onboarding process through Numeriq's user-friendly portal. 4. Work and Get Paid : Submit your timesheets and expenses to receive your salary promptly. Want to Know More? If you’re an independent contractor, international consultant, or a company hiring in Switzerland, Numeriq can help simplify your life. Check them out here  and see how easy Swiss payroll can actually be.

A big part of Paléo’s long lasting success lies in the way the festival is made to be as welcoming as possible. As just about anyone who has lived the Paléo experience knows, there’s much more to a day on the grounds than going to see the concert you were really excited about. The number of good quality food stalls and the special attention the organisers give to making the grounds as enjoyable as possible are one of the reasons that make most people who come to Paléo want to come back the following year. Paléo works like a temporary town of 50’000 people that pops up for a week, with its different “neighbourhoods” with their own distinctive vibe and flavours. The food stalls are thematically organised throughout the grounds, with all eastern food situated in the top right hand corner of the grounds, next to Le Detour, the stage dedicated to international discoveries (don’t miss out on the bands playing here, as this is one of the places to be to discover the latest musical trends!). Paléo has upped their plant-based food game these past couple of years, as I remember having to choose from a selection of about two stalls to find something I could eat. But that time has gone, and most stalls on the festival now have a tasty vegetarian/vegan option. This is obviously quite easy when it comes to stalls that serve Indian food, and le Paprika is an old favourite. They offer fresh Naans cooked in their tandoori oven alongside rice and daal, and tasty samosas. Just opposite, the Himalayan outpost of Tashi Momo serve the delicious steamed Tibetan dumplings, that come in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions. Don’t forget to check out their fiery chilli paste- but be warned, it is as hot as it is tasty! One of the most special areas of the festival is undoubtedly the Village du Monde, which acts like a “festival in a festival”. On top of the amazing concerts hosted under the big top, where you get to see a mix of the best contemporary takes on musical traditions of Central America, an extra special effort is put into the scenography of the Village du Monde. This year, three pyramid like structures are made to invoke the sacred Mayan pyramids. It’s a perfect spot to sit down and enjoy the music or have a bit to eat, while getting to tower over the rest of the crowd. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful artwork made of powdered paint and wood shavings, painstakingly made by hand, the best view is from the top of one of the pyramids! This is obviously the place to enjoy a nice burrito or taco, which both exist in versions with marinated tofu (and guacamole! I don’t need much more to be happy!). A nice refreshing treat can be found at a small stall selling fresh sugar cane juice that comes in two versions: normal and ginger. Perfect after a stroll round the grounds! The Village du Monde also has two bars situated at two ends of the area, selling cocktails and a selection of beers from across the world (sadly nothing to get too excited about, I still long for the day where it’ll be possible to enjoy craft beer on the grounds…) The bar de l'Escale (the one at the far end of the Village du Monde) also boasts its own stage, and quite a few of the bands playing under the Dôme come here for 15 minute intimate sets. A perfect way to enjoy amazing artists in a different setting and energy. You can find the program for the Escale here. Walking back down from the Village du Monde, don’t miss out on the caravan selling vegan burgers and the vintage Salt and Rocks caravan who do fish and chips- I can vouch for the chips and the mushy peas. Exactly what you feel like after a concert on the main stage, when it starts getting dark and you need something to fill your stomach. This brings us to another magical area of the festival, the wondrous sculptures of expert craftsmen and metal artists Monic La Mouche. Their love affair with Paléo has been going on for quite some time now, and they never fail to deliver. Their rough yet delicate light installations are a delight to look at by day and by night, transforming when the sun goes down and the lights turn on. The main big structure at the top of the hill also hosts a photo exhibition, with photos of the festival taken by the same photographers whose work you can enjoy in la Gallerie. This is a perfect place to enjoy the concerts on the main stage in a low-key way, lounging in the grass, and just listening to the music, or depending on how many people there are in the crowd, even actually seeing the artists on stage. At the bottom of the slope resides one of the most special areas of the whole grounds. La Ruche has been inviting festivalgoers into its magical and creative universe for ten years now, and is the place to go for street theatre and circus. You can enjoy a series of very different shows here, from the poetic and philosophical musings of the ZUL- Lemanic Utopian Zone- to the romantic and musical experience of Vladimir Spoutnik who you can also catch around the grounds with his soviet-themed mobile disco. The key attraction is obviously Cirque Pardi’s beautiful circus tent. Enter their awe-inducing and poetic universe for an 80 minute show of wonder, incredible feats and clowning. I have met up with some of the people working behind the scenes of la Ruche, so don’t miss out very soon on a deeper delve into this enchanting place. La Ruche also sends out artists throughout the grounds to liven up the festival in between shows, so if you come across a couple of seedy looking surfers or some wondrous and weird creatures, don’t worry, it’s not too much sun and beer, but just another theatre troupe here to make you laugh and dream! A special heads up to Collectif M et Vous , a young circus collective who are currently studying in one of the most prestigious professional circus schools in France, and who are here to share with you their insane acrobatic skills. Working on the themes of collaboration and trust, they perform twice a day for twenty minutes behind the Terrasse , above the main stage, usually just before and after the first concert on the main stage. Don’t miss their show, you won’t regret it!