28 physios, a lot of fresh snow, and the freedom to spend the weekend exactly how you wanted. That's how our community weekend in Grindelwald felt. No mandatory programme, no tight schedule. Just hang out together, enjoy the mountains, and decide for yourself how you spend the day. Exactly what takeoff stands for. To everyone who was there: what a weekend.
The journey there
On Friday afternoon, Tijmen (CEO of takeoff) and I boarded the train to Grindelwald. The ride took a bit longer, but we deliberately took the time. The further we went, the more impressive the view became. From flat home countries to the mountain peaks of Switzerland. The train ride alone already felt like a kick-start to the weekend.
Part of the group was already at the hostel when we arrived, the rest followed later that evening. After dividing up the rooms, we gathered for dinner. Good food, a drink, and a beer here and there. Conversations started naturally, and you immediately noticed how nice it is to sit down with peers. The community we'd already built online suddenly got a face here in the mountains.
Saturday: everyone has their own adventure
Saturday morning started quietly with a long breakfast. Plans were made, expectations exchanged, choices fell into place. Because that's the great thing: after breakfast, everyone went their own way. Some headed straight into the mountains to ski, others picked hiking or sledging. Grindelwald is the kind of mountain village that has something for everyone.
A lot of snow had fallen in the days before. Where we'd been a bit nervous about the weather beforehand, it turned out to be perfect. Everything felt extra wintery, exactly how you'd imagine a weekend in the Alps.
At the end of the afternoon, the group reunited in a local bar. Cheers, share stories about the day, and laugh a lot about each other's adventures. It's amazing how easily a group like this comes together when everyone has the same background. Physios who moved to Switzerland through takeoff just understand each other. Then back to the hostel for dinner.
The evening showed once again how diverse this group is. Some went out for a walk in the village, others played games at the hostel, others relaxed with a book or a film. Everyone did exactly what suited them. No judgement, no pressure. And before we knew it, Saturday was done.
Goodbye and last moments
Sunday morning came early. At nine o'clock, it was time to check out. The weather cleared during the afternoon, so some headed home while others hit the slopes one last time. Enjoying the sun, the snow, and those final moments together in the mountains.
A weekend that felt good
Looking back, we understand why this weekend felt so good. With 28 people who came to the Swiss mountains from across Europe, new connections were made. Friendships deepened. Memories created that last. Plenty of information was exchanged, both professionally and personally. Tips about working in Switzerland, sharing experiences about practices and places to live, and making new friends in a country where you don't know anyone yet.
This weekend shows what takeoff really stands for. It's not just about finding a job in Switzerland. It's about the people you meet, the experiences you share, and the community that supports you when you take that step. Physios on the same adventure as you, who face the same challenges, and who get it without you having to explain.
Curious what takeoff can do for you? Get in touch or check out the open vacancies right now. We'd love to hear from you.
