Chances are that you are already aware of Geneva as the heart of the diplomatic hub in Europe, the city being host to 26 different UN agencies and permanent missions of 150+ member states.
Yet, ironically enough, despite the fact that the town (not a city I would argue) is teeming with internal civil servants in various agencies, they tend to stay in their expat bubble since they mostly stay here on a short stint and not care much about learning the local language - leading to a lack of interaction of Geneva locals and these expats that make the city so vibrant and international.
There is a catch though: you can't come here on your own - only staff affiliated to UN bodies/country representatives can invite non-UN staff. I am sure you'd manage to find some UN staff easily in Geneva.
They have many events happening throughout the summer, from BBQ to live music, although I must admit their lack of vegan options does bother me a bit. But the cheap prices of cocktails more than make up for what it lacks.
The icing on the cake is the paddleboards - you can borrow them for free on a not-so-busy day (you have to give your ID card for borrowing the paddles) - they have built a new floating dock from where you can begin your paddleboarding journey on Lac Leman! Or you can simply take their leaning chair and enjoy some sun while reading a book - it's up to you!
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Going to "Mount Saleve" in Geneva is something locals do on a Sunday morning - go to the top by cable car or hike and you can paraglide down!
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"Le Dhaba" in Geneva is an Indian restaurant that is styled after an authentic highway-side truck driver cafe! You should try their thali...
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"Qafe Guidoline" in Geneva is one of those rare places that have great beer on top of amazing coffee. It's my hip, go-to place for a Friday night...
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"Le Saïgonais Restaurant" is my favorite restaurant in Geneva purely on the basis of food. They're Asian/Vietnamese and plant-based - need I say more?
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"DFC Sports" in Geneva is a boxing gym that's ideal for meeting people & intensely working out while traveling! Kind of ironic in this peaceful city!
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"ALIVE" in Geneva isn't your typical vegan restaurant that only offers lazy burgers & wraps - it's so much more! Try the Brunch Menu on weekends...
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"Gives a Fork" in Geneva, with its U-shaped table and small dining area, makes for a very intimate vibe - a great restaurant to dine with friends!
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"Audio Club" is my favorite club in Geneva. I come here with my friends for a great electronic music night with good sound and adventurous programming!
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Geneva's theatre scene would just not be the same without "Galpon Theatre"! 20 years later, it's still managed by its founder. It's so cosy & familiar!
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"Entre Homard et Cote" Geneva is where I'd go for a burger or lobster rolls, served with potato wedges and salad. You’ll be licking your fingers clean...
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95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters