Think of Switzerland and you are likely to think of Geneva. Although not the biggest city in the country, it is certainly the best known. Famed for its International organisations, the city has many, including the United Nations, the Red Cross headquarters, the World Health Organisation and many more. This all results in a city with a very international feel with locals speaking several languages, including English. The first language here is French, which isn’t surprising when you realise that over 90% of the city borders France. The city is split into two sides, the left and right banks – it is important to work this out quickly as all directions you will be given by locals always refer to the relevant bank.CultureFor an evening of culture, one can choose from the Opera House, the Music Hall and several theatres (some performances in English). During the day the city is best explored on foot – take a stroll around the lake and observe the Water Fountain, which runs all year round, and reaches 140 metres in height. The take a look at the Parc des eaux-vives and the Geneve Plage (local beach on the left bank) which also plays host to an open air cinema during the Summer months.
One place not to miss is the Place de Bourg-du-Four, a square in the centre of the old town, which looks like a scene from the film, Chocolat (this square has a chocolaterie of its own) – visit one of the cafes and sit in the square watching the world go by. Then go and explore the many narrow streets and visit the little boutiques. Several of the 30 museums in Geneva are based in this area - Natural History, Maison Tavel, Espace Rousseau, Musée Barbier-Mueller and being in Switzerland, the Clock and Watch Museum.
ShoppingThe city has a wealth of designer names including Gucci, Armani & Donna Karan, which can all be found on Rue du Rhone on the left bank. Plenty of shops can also be found on Rue de la Corraterie, Rue du Marche and Rue de la Confédération. For smaller, more unique boutiques, then visit the narrow lanes of the old town.
NightlifeAlthough the scene in Geneva is relatively small, there are several places to have a fun night and get to know the locals. The most popular bar is Bar Nathan (6 Rue Baudit), which is open every evening until 2.00 am – this is the busiest and trendiest of the bars most evenings, although gay life is busier at weekends in Geneva. Le Concorde (3 Rue de Berne) has a more mature clientele, with a more traditional ‘pub’ feel to it. Other bars include Lolipop (10 Rue Goetz-Monin), Bar le Tube (3 Rue de l’Universite) and the local (and only) ‘gay disco’ is Pretexte (9 Rue du Prince), which only gets busy at weekends.
L’Evidence (Rue du Grottes) is a gay friendly restaurant, which has a French menu, fantastic food, but is quite expensive. Another, more reasonably priced place to eat is Café Gallay (Bd Saint-Georges), which has a young arty feel to it and great atmosphere.
For the best updates on local gay life, pick up a copy of 360 degrees magazine, a local gay monthly publication. Another useful source of information is
Swiss GaySportsAn ideal location for lovers of outdoor pursuits, with both the lake and the mountains to enjoy. Local sports include skiing (on both water and snow), as well as rafting, yachting, water skiing, rock climbing, horse riding, para-gliding and much more.
TransportThe airport is located only 15 minutes from the city centre. The tram in the centre of town can quickly transfer you to France in one direction or to the town of Carouge, where markets are held every Wednesday and Saturday in the Place du Marche. You can take a train and be in Italy within the hour. You can also explore the city by boat and take a trip around the lake. Special cruises include lunch, dancing – check Tourist Board for details.
Local InformationFor local information simply visit the Geneva Tourism Office who will be happy to provide you with details of local events.
Geneva Tourism OfficeRue de Mont-Blanc 18
PO Box 1602
CH – 1211 Geneva 1
Tel: +41 (22) 9097000
http://www.geneva-tourism.chinfo@geneva-tourism.chGetting ThereTravel packages to Geneva can booked through the Switzerland Travel Centre on freephone 00800 100 200 30 or send an email to
stc@stlondon.com. Check out their
website for more on Switzerland.
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