One of the most defining experiences for me in the US was having a driver’s license and being able to go anywhere I want in my own car. Now, a car over here is most probably not necessary, but not having one is quite a change. Of course, there is plenty of public transportation over here, but it is a painful process getting back into chasing trains and buses!

But first things first: On Thursday, freshly arrived from the US, I made my way to my new office from Geneva. The ticket I bought at a vending machine, pas de problem! It even accepted my US debit card. Of course, I took a train that does not stop where I had to go, so I had to change into a more, well, local service about half way to Lausanne. In Renens, I had to change to the metro, but unfortunately, the ticket machine only takes change or a special pay card! I didn’t have any change on me, and actually, that problem has been with me ever since! I mean, why can’t the machine accept bills? Especially, since the prices range from 2 up to 15 Francs! Come on, this is the 21st century, machines can read bills and credit cards! But nooooooooooooooo, not here, not on the local train or bus service. To make it worse, the whole thing is bloody expensive! I was trying to find a place where I can buy a monthly ticket, but so far these offices are like a myth to me…

But there is one thing I have to admit: Damn, the public transport is punctual! Even the local busses are mostly within 2-3min of their schedule! And the SBB (Swiss train), oh là là, don’t even think about coming 30s or so too late on the platform! Man, those Swiss have that really figured out!

Biking is certainly an option, but only as long as your are craling along the lake front. The instant you decide to go north, you start going up. Seriously up. Anyone remember my bitching about the hill I had to ride every morning to work? Well, forget it! This is the real deal! In some places, bicycling is completely out of the question!

So, maybe I should get a car? But as long as I don’t have my work permit, I won’t get a credit, so I better get used to walking. And carrying tons of coins with me!