5 THINGS YOU'LL NOTICE ABOUT GENEVA

My trip to Geneva was in some ways exactly how I was expecting it to be. But in other ways, the city surprised me. I had expectations, some of which were met, but spending a quiet weekend walking around the city opened my eyes to unexpected surprises. With my comfy trainers on, backpack strapped to my back and my eyes wide open, I set out to explore the city and these are five of the things I first noticed.

The city is taken care of

What a shock it was, coming from Paris to Geneva and just noticing how the city looks. The streets are unbelievably clean, which made my experience there even more enjoyable. There's something lovely about wandering around a city that feels well looked after. The streets seem so much more inviting, and particularly welcoming to guests like me.

The Reformation wall is over 100 years old, but looks as good as new!

Dining out

This wasn't too much of a shock, as I had been warned by University friends who grew up there, but Switzerland is expensive. The Swiss Franc to the Euro is quite similar, and so looking at the prices of meals, in particular, I must admit I was a little taken aback. That being said, living in the capital, Paris, for several months has made me quite accustomed to paying more than I would like. I see nothing wrong with having a little 'treat-yo-self' weekend, especially if you've come away on a lovely European break - you want to be able to enjoy it! If you are looking to indulge, perhaps go for a fancy meal out in the evening, but stick to independent bakeries for breakfast and perhaps a department store lunch - Manor has an incredible buffet which I've spoken about here.

Free transport anyone?

When you arrive in Geneva, go straight to your hotel/hostel where they will supply you with a transport card for your trip. I paid 3chf for a single bus ticket, and then later that day I paid 9chf for a 24h pass when in reality would have been paid for if I'd gone to get the pass. I had heard about it online, but assumed I would not receive one as I was staying in a hostel rather than a hotel - but when I checked in for the evening at 8pm, they presented me with one. Please don't make my mistake!

When it's dark, it's dark!

Coming from the so-called 'City of Light' to Geneva, I was intrigued to notice the lack of street lights in certain areas around the city, in particular around Lake Geneva. I walked from the United Nations back to my hostel in the early evening (though the winter nights were dark as ever), and although the city feels safe in general, I didn't enjoy that walk one bit. It was spooky walking next to the expansive black lake by myself, and I found it strange that there were just no street lights. Something to bear in mind!

Crystal waters

Speaking of the lake, its deep black waters are more than remedied by the pure turquoise of the lake in the daytime. It's beautiful, but nothing special from far away, but the closer you get to the water, the more extraordinary the view becomes. The water is so clear you can see the bottom, even if it is three metres below. The sounds of the lake as it becomes a fast flowing river are calming when combined with such stunning views, colours and fresh air.

I'll be wandering with all my senses from now on.