Profile for Sophie

The unplanned expatriate blogger behind HiddenRiverPad

Sophie Meier - Founder of HiddenRiverPad Photo: HiddenRiverPad

Hi there, I'm Sophie

I work as a project manager. I'm a parent. An expat living in Zurich, Switzerland.

A few years back I moved here with my family. What began as a short‑term assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Relocating to Switzerland wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it began as a work opportunity and quickly became something much bigger.

The first months were intense — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.

City skyline in Zurich, Switzerland
Life in Zurich brings its share of surprises. Photo: HiddenRiverPad

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.

Why I Built HiddenRiverPad

Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.

This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in Switzerland.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site is:

  • Hands-on experience from living in Switzerland
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated when a real change occurs

This site isn't:

  • Not a tourism-board resource
  • A sponsored-review platform
  • A generic travel weblog

Looking Forward

Our time in Switzerland continues, as does the learning journey. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll keep documenting what we uncover.

If you have questions about family life in Zurich or anywhere in Switzerland, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Sophie

Zurich, Switzerland