An Expat Geneva Mini Tour - a Taste of Switzerland’s Prized Gem

When faced with the possibility of expat Geneva life, a flood of questions, and even apprehension, can overshadow the thrill that a cross country or overseas move can bring. Becoming accustomed to another culture can be difficult, but luckily, you’re considering becoming a Geneva expat. Any negative feelings associated with your move are sure to quickly fall under the shadows of majestic mountains, drown in the crystal liquidity of the surrounding water, pale in comparison to colorful art, fall flat under perfect opera house pitch, and seem downright dumb when eclipsed by the exemplary education opportunities in Geneva. Your first question on any visit might be, “What’s the weather like?” Thanks to the Jura Mountains and the Alps, along with Lake Geneva and the Rhone River, Geneva’s residents and visitors enjoy moderate temperatures that rarely reach sweltering or freezing levels. Layering is recommended, but you can leave the goose down and personal cooling devices at home. History is a significant draw for those vacationing and [living in Geneva][1]. Established more than 2,100 years ago, this cultural hub’s art is chronicled from past to present in the Rath Museum and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The area’s homegrown native species, as well as those found around the world, are captured in the Natural History Museum. Victoria Hall, Grand Theatre, and the Conservatory of Music are sure to strike harmonious chords with music afficienados and casual listeners alike. There’s no shortage of notable architecture in Geneva. A short walk or a trek across the city will reveal an assortment of Medieval, Neoclassical, and Neo-Baroque architectural styles, as well as those buildings crafted by Gothic, German, French, and Roman masterminds. Schooling is robust in Geneva. Expat Geneva parents can choose from private or public schools for their children and are sure to be delighted by Geneva’s abundance of secondary education options, including Webster University, the University of Geneva, the International University in Geneva, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, as well as the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations. Language paints a colorful rainbow in Geneva. Because the city is the heart of international relations in Europe, its frequently spoken languages include German and Italian. However, French is its most common vernacular. English speaking expats will note that most other visitors speak their language, as do 25 percent of Geneva’s fulltime residents. With a bit of research, a Geneva expat can find a [veterinarian][2], pharmacist, or dentist who speaks their native tongue. Geneva is popular for banking and watch making, but many aren’t aware of its significance in the fields of pharmaceuticals and technology. In fact, the worldwide web was developed in Geneva. If you’re considering living in Geneva, you can rest assured in knowing that your business travels will be accommodated healthily. Not only can you take advantage of high speed train systems that connect Geneva to France, Germany, and Spain, but you can fly to any other European city in two hours or less. I trust that you’ve enjoyed your mini tour of Geneva, Switzerland. It certainly has been small when compared to the majesty, connectedness, and fluency of the city. Close to half of Geneva’s population has come from outside Switzerland’s borders to live, and if you choose to join them, you’ll soon witness Geneva’s charm for yourself. Geneva can easily be dubbed Europe’s prized gem. I invite you, through expat Geneva living, to try it on for size. I think you’ll find that it sparkles beyond all expectations. [1]: http://www.genevalocals.net [2]: http://animalhospitalgeneva3.org