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Ratana, the chic mamma
Everything began with the meeting of a goose breeder and a beautiful seamstress who fled the Cambodian genocide to finally land in Switzerland (although they had planned to go to Australia). From their love was born a third daughter they named Ratana (a boy’s name… look no further!). I grew up on Fribourg soil. After graduating in law, I set off to gain employment. From financial analyst for an oil company to legal consultant specialised in environmental law, I met the love of my life in Lausanne. Married with 2 children, I hate cheesy things and a sedate, couch-based lifestyle. A city dweller by nature and a Lausanner at heart, I’m driven by curiosity, always on the lookout for smart ideas, the latest trends and with itchy feet as soon as the weekend comes round. My ideal day: shopping, restaurant and apéro combined with pétanque, with friends and my little ones running through the fields.
« For me, Lausanne is… the city of paradoxes. It goes up and down. It delights families with its swimming pools and activities … and singles in search of friendships and maybe more. It’s restful, with its museums and cosy cafés, and electrical with its nightlife to hit the dancefloor until morning. It’s packed with mystery and yet reveals itself as it is, without artifice. It’s natural, with its large parks full of trees, and urban, with its lively and trendy epicentre. »
My recommendations
On the lakeside in Vidy, let yourself be enticed by the aromas of barbecues, the sound of berimbau, the spontaneous party for a newborn, the runners, bystanders and Sunday pétanque players. Just settle comfortably on a bench or on the water’s edge and watch the goings-on around you. It’s the peaceful mix and intermingling of cultures that are Lausanners.
Perched atop the CGN building in Ouchy, The Lacustre is an essential stop. Feast your eyes on the lake view while enjoying your pizza (my favourite is the Scamorza) and sipping ginger ale. What more could you want? Children and grown-up alike will love playing table football. Special mention for the uber cute toilets. Remember it’s bar service only, but the atmosphere is just so chilled…
In the heart of Lausanne, not far from the Place de la Palud, is nestled Madeleine. No, it’s not where my aunt Madeleine lives, but a bookshop café. On one side is the bookshop and on the other the café. The place is timeless. I suggest taking a seat at a table to sip an iced coffee and savour a madeleine (of course!). You’ll be lulled by the surrounding peacefulness created by the pastel touches of the decoration and the soft lounge music in the background.
As you round a corner, what could be more fun than discovering electrical cabinets that proudly display a COFOP-signed graffiti? An urban object diverted as street art that delights the curious strollers who set out to spot them across the whole town. It’s pure eye candy. Endowed with a touch of humour and lightheartedness, such as “Lozanup, la ville qui monte” (“Lozanup, the city that climbs”) or “Lausangeles”, these graffiti will brighten up your day.
For a short shopping break, here’s an address to remember! Nestled just above Place de l’Ours, you’ll find Kétala Boutique and its boudoir style. The window display is enticing, and you can’t resist walking inside. There, you’ll find clothing, shoes, objects, jewellery, stationery, etc. by small creators. Go and take a look, you’ll tell me what you think!
Go to this restaurant run by a couple of cooking enthusiasts to savour lovingly prepared and tasty dishes. They serve homemade local cuisine with local products. The chef’s personal touches are the specialities from Ukraine, Belarus and Latvia. You’ll get a warm welcome and be made to feel quite at home!
It offers a picture-postcard panorama over Lausanne and a stunning view over the lake. What could be better than to spread your picnic blanket on the lawn with a bottle of red wine, a saucisson and a piece of cheese to relish as you savour the view. Enjoy the moment!