Hello All,

I have been taking a look at the english forum for some months now, when I was looking for jobs in Switzerland, finding out about visa issues, employment, etc. I have found it to be very helpful and funny Well since I did find a job and I have just moved to Basel I thought it was time to properly introduce myself. I don't know how long I will be here since I have a permanent position, of course that depends on how well I do on the job. Anyhow, I would like to meet people here since I am basically by myself and I know it takes a long time to become true friends with the Swiss people.
As I said in my title, I am Mexican-Calfornian (probably you don't hear that often, but since California is very different from the rest of the US I like to say Californian instead of American ) I am fluent in Spanish and English, and know some Arabic, but my German is non-existing and that worries me even though I know I can get by with English and my job is in English, but still I want to learn some German to try to "integrate" somewhat. Anyhow that's another topic, I just wanted to introduce myself and if anyone is interested in coffee/conversation/hanging out, let me know since cold gloomy days make a Mexican-Californian feel a bit lonely .

Thanks / Gracias / شكرا / Danke

Mari

Hey Mari

What kind of things do you like to do in your free time? and how old are you? what kind of things would you like to find out about Basel?

I am sure either I or other Basel people would be delighted to help you get your legs !

Just a quickie about the Swiss: it takes a while to get to know them because they are sincere. But when you do, My god they are amazing people. Swiss friends are forever friends. They are not fairweather, or mean, or cold despite what you may have heard
Most of my friends are in fact, Swiss and I LOVE THEM; so patience and sincerity will bring you a long way with making new friends that are Swiss !

Welcome to Basel. The bright sunny days will follow these cold, gloomy days.

Hey Memonge,

The few days here I've found Swiss people to be nice, friendly, and helpful. I do have one Swiss friend here, but that's the only person and I don't know his social circle, that probably comes later. But anyhow, I'm 29, I like outdoor activities, don't have my bike yet so can't do that for now. I'm also trying to make jogging a regular thing, I went jogging yesterday morning, the cold was not as bad as I thought. I like cooking and eating others home cooked meals , so any foodies out there let me know. I like wine, the ocassional bar scene is nice, I like music, hoping to check out the jazz club Bird's Eye, I also like to relax with a movie, or just go out for coffee, explore the city, would like to check out several of the museums, etc etc. I think I'm pretty open and adaptable to good fun times .

Mari

Here is my advice (unsolicited) on how to make friends in short time : invite the Basel EFers for some home made enchilada, chile relleno (of course with Swiss cheese) and tacos???

Ok

do you want to bop me your email/facebook number in a PM?

I love love food I don't know if you read my profile. I am 18 1/2 though so alot younger then you. I do have friends older then me though that would probably be chuffed to spend time with you if you feel out of depths with me

I have a good friend in mind who is 30 to introduce you to !

Welcome to the forum

you are making me hungry talking about enchiladas and tacos.. fortunately I know of the Mexican products shop near Allschwil.. so at least I won't be food homesick.. once I get settled in properly I can have an enchilada night! yum! and will let you all know.
@ TKN, so what's the story behind your profile picture of the comic "Ask a Mexican" ?makes me laugh when I see it.

You can also get some Mexican products in Basel (not the same as Mexico or California) but still OK. You got it right Chicana, it is from "Ask a Mexican"
I like my enchilada smothered with hatch green chile stew (just in case..).

oh no no, I'm not Chicana, however, that's a converation for another thread... are you Chicano?

Negative. People thought I was one....when I lived in New Mexico which is neither new nor in Mexico.

I don't know if your have been Switzerlanded yet I have been a few times in my 10 months here.
You should go to La Fonda if you want to experience that ...
http://www.lafonda.ch/en/home

Welcome to Basel and the forum. I'd say La Fonda is worth neither your money nor your your time.

I've also read "Ask a Mexican". It's nice as a humor book, may be good at describing Mexicans living in the USA, but not good describing "Mexicans" in general.

Why wasn't I informed about that last year . I was Switzerlanded .

@Mari Salam
What difference did you feel between California life and Swiss life in terms of earnings, opportunities, business, safety, education , job prospects etc.

Please differentiate each and everything in detail. I am also considering to move to Switzerland from Japan. I am student here and would come to Switzerland as a Student.

W.Salam
Better if you add me on facebook or send me yours on my temporary email your.bazai@gmail.com

Dont put personal details on forums

Thanks for the Welcome, I think it will take some time before I adjust, however it's not the first time I live abroad so it's not that bad, only the beginning is a bit difficult. I'll be in touch trough the forum.

Mari

Hi Mari,
Welcome to the Forum and Switzerland from another from a border state!

You can also get Mexican products from El Maiz in Zürich. They have
quite an extensive selection of things there from Tequila to hot sauce to chips to corn husks, etc.

Welcome to Basel. I have been here since September. Slowly getting settled. If you want company when you are running then I suggest you check out the Basel Dragons running club. Monday and Thursday nights.
Basel Dragons Running club

Mark