Ini Archibong’s guide to the quiet cool of Neuchâtel
The industrial designer on finding peace – and pizza – in his adopted home
By Christina Ohly Evans
I grew up in LA and went to Singapore after school to learn about the worlds of luxury and watches. I had always wanted to see Switzerland, so in 2014 I applied for a luxury programme in Lausanne and I fell in love with the country from that very first trip. I took the train everywhere – to school, to other cities, to the lakes – and experienced my first real winter. I love the orderliness, cleanliness and the natural beauty here. I now live in the small town of Neuchâtel, which reminds me of my hometown, Pasadena.
There are many parks; everyone is either walking, cycling or hiking; and you can hear the birds sing. I love the small-town vibe. I live on Lake Neuchâtel in a flat with a private beach, and with woods and a stream nearby. The only challenge has been the language; I studied German in high school, but Neuchâtel is French-speaking. I have just enough words to get by – but I’m learning.