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Geneva |
Geneva has long been Switzerland's most cosmopolitan city. Situated at the southwestern end of Lac Leman (the country's largest lake) and astride the Rhone, Geneva is the departure point for lake steamers. Only an arrival by water can convey just how well sited the city is, with foreground hills rising against a backdrop of mountains. The river bisects the city – some refer to the north side as the right bank (Rive Droite) and the south as the left bank (Rive Gauche). The city centre is sited on both shores, with the main railway station and the suburbs to the north of the river and the Old Town (Vieille Ville) to the south of the river.
The city is also a major banking centre (a 'city of wealth by stealth' as the British actor Robert Morley put it) and plays a significant role in the manufacture of watches, scientific instruments, jewellery and foodstuffs. These roles have contributed to it being an expensive city in which to live or stay, although it has much to offer the visitor, principally the Old Town and some fine museums. Geneva is an efficient, clean city. Its excellent public transport system, coupled with the ease and pleasure of walking around the centre, make a car unnecessary, even a nuisance.
The city enjoys a mild central European climate with relatively low rainfall. The super-rich community of international civil servants and tax exiles demand good food, top hotels and entertainment and Geneva provides it all. Beneath the stereotypical veneer of diamonds and watches, however, one finds a tolerant and safe society with the Genevois strangely similar to the British – reserved but courteous.
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Travel Facts |
Full Name : Geneva; Area : 282 sq km, 109 sq miles ; Population : 178,400
; Country Dialing Code : +41 (Area code 22); Electricity: 230V 50HzHz ;
Climate : Summers are pleasantly warm to hot, and winters relatively mild with temperatures hovering just above or below freezing. Rain falls all year round
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Languages :
German, French, Italian, Raeto-Romance ;
Religion :
41.8% Roman Catholic, 35.3% Protestant, 4.3% Muslim, 1.8% Orthodox Christian, 11.1% no religion, 5.7% other ;
Best Time to Visit :
Throughout the year ;
International Airport : Geneva Cointrin International Airport.
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