Finding Your Village in Basel

When I first moved to Basel, I didn’t expect loneliness to be the loudest part of the experience. Between figuring out trams, paperwork, and supermarket closing hours, what I missed most was connection. Not just small talk or nods at daycare drop-off, but real community — the kind that checks in, shows up, and makes a place feel like home. In short: I was missing a village.

As expats, we often arrive in a new city brimming with logistics but light on emotional anchors. And in a place like Basel — beautiful, efficient, quietly reserved — it can take a while to find your people. But it is possible. And it starts with a shift in mindset and a few practical steps.

Give Yourself Permission to Seek Connection

I had to learn that looking for community wasn’t a sign of weakness — it was what I needed. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to reach out. Basel has a vibrant network of internationals, young families, creatives, professionals, and open-hearted locals. But you have to give yourself permission to look and ask.

Start Where You Are

Your 'village' doesn’t have to be 20 people deep. It can start with one person you meet for coffee, one WhatsApp group that feels uplifting, one neighbour who smiles back. I found two of my closest friends through my children — simply by being present at drop-offs, playdates, and birthday parties. You never know which everyday moment will lead to real connection.

Children Can Be a Great Icebreaker

If you're a parent, your child’s playgroup can be one of the easiest bridges to community. While the little ones play, meaningful conversations often unfold on the sidelines — about schools, paediatricians, rainy-day activities, and homesickness. Basel offers several welcoming options like Familienzentrum Gundeli, Familienzentrum OASE, and the Basel Children’s Trust (BCT). These spaces are more than childcare — they're places where community happens, where first friendships are made, and where parents find each other. For a listing of English speaking playgroups, please read our article: English Speaking Playgroups & Daycare in Basel.

Show Up Imperfectly

You don’t have to have it all together to show up. One of the biggest turning points for me was joining an expat parents’ meet-up on a day I felt tired, flustered, and honestly a little homesick. But I went anyway — and I met people who got it. Vulnerability creates space for real connection. Don’t wait until you feel 'ready.'

Diversify Your Social Life

I quickly learned that I couldn’t rely on one person or group to meet all my social needs. Some friends are for deep talks, some for wine nights, some for tips on navigating Swiss bureaucracy. Embrace the mosaic. Basel is full of communities — from art collectives and yoga classes to professional networks. You Belong in Basel is a great starting point to find some of these groups.

Groups like InterNations can be a great starting point to meet fellow internationals, especially if you're new and looking to explore social events with low commitment. And if you want to connect with locals while doing something meaningful, volunteering for a charity organization can be incredibly fulfilling. Whether it's helping at a food bank, mentoring newcomers, or supporting cultural festivals, giving your time creates natural, purpose-driven connections.

And if you're more of a bookworm, there are plenty of niche interest groups too. I personally run a small, cozy WhatsApp-based book club, which has become an incredible source of exchange on all things books — and, just as importantly, a strong social network for its members. We share recommendations, life updates, and the occasional meme — and for many of us, it’s become one of the most grounding parts of life in Basel. Sometimes your village starts with a shared story.

Say Yes to Invitations

One thing I’ve learned in Basel: when someone invites you — say yes. Even if you’re tired, unsure, or don’t know anyone else going. Whether it’s a coffee after school pickup, a local event, or a spontaneous weekend picnic, these small 'yes' moments are what slowly build your village.

Some of the most meaningful connections I’ve made came from plans I almost turned down — often out of habit or hesitation. It’s easy to retreat into routine, but growth and friendship happen just outside your comfort zone. So go to that dinner, join that walk, and accept the invitation. Community starts with showing up.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still searching for your people here in Basel, you’re not alone. I’ve been there — many of us have. Keep reaching out, stay open, and remember: home isn’t always a place. Sometimes, it’s a feeling that grows between people. You may not have been born here, but you absolutely belong here - You Belong in Basel.

For more tips on life in Basel, follow @mummyinbasel on Instagram. If you’d like more information about joining the book club, feel free to get in touch — we’d love to have you.

Zahra Pasha

Zahra defines herself as a language enthusiast and part time domestic goddess. Zahra is also a public speaking coach, a proofreader, a PhD student and a mum to two children and a golden retriever. She enjoys cooking, reading, travelling and working on her goal to be a polyglot! 

Website: www.betteryourskills.com

Instagram: betteryourskills, mummyinbasel

LinkedIn: Zahra Pasha