Rachel Kaelin
Living Elegantly Between Swiss Serenity and Italian Charm
By Peter Davis
How a Swiss-American Influencer Built a Dream Life in Lugano While Inspiring Millions Online
Rachel Kaelin, the Swiss-American influencer and content creator behind @rachelbaelin, has captivated over a million followers with her refined elegance, travel inspiration, and timeless style. Nestled in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, she has crafted a lifestyle that blends sophistication with adventure. In this exclusive interview, she shares her journey, love for Switzerland, and the secrets behind her Instagram success.
Her transition to Switzerland was more than just a move—it was a journey of self-discovery. As a Swiss-American, she always felt an inherent connection to the country. “The first time I visited Europe at 16, I was enchanted,” she recalls. There was an undeniable magic she had never experienced before. Settling in Lugano felt like the perfect fusion of Swiss precision and Italian charm.
“Here, I’m surrounded by snow-capped mountains, stunning lakes, and Mediterranean palm trees while enjoying some of the finest cuisine in the world.” More than just the scenery, it was the lifestyle that truly captivated her. The slower pace, the emphasis on relationships, and the warmth of everyday interactions made a lasting impact. “Strangers greet each other warmly with ‘Buongiorno,’ and friendships are nurtured with genuine connection—it’s a way of life I’ve fully embraced.”
Living in such a breathtaking part of the world has allowed her to uncover Switzerland’s hidden gems. Some of her favorite places include Morcote, an Italian-style lakeside village known for its historic charm and the enchanting Parco Scherrer, Mürren, a clifftop village offering mesmerizing views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, and Lungern, a picture-perfect destination with lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and a turquoise lake that looks like a painting.
These places, though lesser-known, capture the essence of Switzerland’s untouched beauty. Despite her love for travel, Rachel has found a balance between adventure and home life. “I live in one of the most breathtaking places in the world,” she says. With Lake Lugano as her backyard, Lake Como just a short drive away, and the Alps within two hours, she never feels the need to escape.
Instead of constantly seeking new destinations, she has embraced a travel philosophy that prioritizes quality over quantity. “I always ensure I spend at least two weeks at home between trips to reset and focus on my business.” Her love for elegance extends beyond landscapes and into fashion.
Inspired by timeless icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, Rachel’s style is effortlessly sophisticated. “Living in Switzerland has refined my fashion choices,” she shares. “Swiss fashion is about elegance, quality, and longevity rather than fleeting trends.” Even when traveling, she remains committed to this philosophy, curating outfits that are both stylish and practical.
As someone who loves to be prepared, she meticulously plans her wardrobe for every trip, mixing and matching staple pieces to create a variety of looks. Her go-to European summer ensemble? White linen trousers, a fitted tank top, gold jewelry, and brown leather sandals. Her success on Instagram has been nothing short of transformative. “Instagram has changed my life—it’s a powerful tool for creating freedom and opportunity,” she says.
Recognizing the potential of social media, she is developing the Viral Reels Blueprint, a course designed to simplify Instagram growth. “I want to eliminate the guesswork and show people how to create content that thrives within the algorithm.” What started as a passion for sharing beautiful moments has evolved into a thriving business, proving that with the right approach, social media can open doors to incredible opportunities.
Among the many brand partnerships she has taken part in, one stands out as particularly meaningful. The Ticino Gourmet Tour’s ‘Jump in Ticino’ campaign was one of the most memorable collaboration that allowed her to highlight the beauty of her home region. “It was a multi-day experience that felt like a dream,” she recalls. From gourmet dining to luxury hotel stays, the partnership was a perfect blend of her love for travel and appreciation for Swiss-Italian culture.
Looking ahead, Rachel’s mission remains clear—to inspire others to chase their dreams. “I want to help people create their own success stories,” she says. “Growth is possible. Virality is possible. Turning Instagram into a career is possible.” She envisions future collaborations with luxury brands like Aston Martin and Bentley while also indulging her love for travel with upcoming trips to places like Maderia, Portugal.
The balance between having a stable home and embracing her wanderlust is something she deeply values. For those aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Rachel offers words of encouragement. “If you feel lost or uncertain about your next steps, remember—growth is possible,” she says. Her Viral Reels Blueprint isn’t just about social media; it’s about creating a life that excites you and unlocking opportunities that once seemed out of reach. “This journey is about more than content—it’s about turning your vision into reality.”
Follow Rachel on Instagram @rachelbaelin and @officialbaelin to stay updated on her latest adventures.
