Experience in Geneva, Switzerland by Laura

What is it like to live in Geneva? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Geneva is one of the most pleasant cities to live in the world. It is a small city, easy to get around by public transport and bike, with stunning views everywhere. It is surrounded by mountains - the Alps, the Salève, the Jura - and is home to the biggest lake in Europe, where you can swim and boat. Whilst not the most buzzing in terms of nightlife, if you know where to look there are plenty of things going on!

What is the student lifestyle like in Geneva?

At the beginning of the year you receive a timetable with your class hours, which is generally more than UK students are used to. In some subjects, timetables resemble high school more than university. Classes are given in large auditoriums or small seminar formats. There are many student events organised within the university, although less than in US and UK campus universities.

How much does it cost to live in Geneva?

Geneva is undeniably an expensive city - there's no real way around that.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Geneva? Is there any advice you can give?

It is hard to find accommodation in Geneva. It's definitely worth joining facebook groups and checking housing websites every day!

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Swiss foods are based mainly on dairy, which is great for vegetarians but less great for vegans. Their cheeses are fantastic, as is their chocolate! They also have a selection of dried meat specialties. Most of the traditional dishes are very heavy, as they were for the people working in the mountains during the winter; potatoes with melted cheese (raclette), or bread with melted cheese (fondue) are two main specialties in the area.

What places would you recommend visiting in Geneva?

Definitely go for a swim or a walk along the lake and take a trip up the Salève, by foot or with the Téléphérique.
Go and check out the Rhone river at the Jonction, where you can see two differently coloured rivers joining spectacularly in the center of town ('La Pointe').
Check out the bars on the Rue de l'Ecole de Médecine next to the university, and go and party at the Gravière, the Usine or the Parfumerie.
Geneva also has some great parcs, such as the Bastions, the Parc de la Grange, Parc des Eaux-Vives, and Parc Bertrand., among many others.

Is it good to eat out in Geneva? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are some great places, although they are all expensive. La Belotte is a beautiful lakeside restaurant on the left bank, for something more hype you may want to try out the Kraken's funky burgers.

Is the nightlife good in Geneva? Where is good to go?

It really depends what you're into - for grimy vibes, check out the Usine; for relaxed, young vibes check out the Gravière and the Parfumerie, or the Audio. For techno visit the Weetamix ; For something more fancy (and expensive) you can always visit La Coupole, and for pop music the Bypass, the Mambo club, the Java, or the Monte Cristo (more reggaeton-ish).

What advice would you give future students heading to Geneva?

Try and get a room with the Cigüe, a local housing association that deals only with students - it will really give you insight into the local culture and will allow you to live with some really fun people. Remember to put your name down well in advance, as many people want a room in Geneva at any given time.