Language
Switzerland comprises of German, French and Italian speaking regions.
In Geneva French is the main language.
Most hotel, restaurant and airport staff will speak English.
A few useful French phrases are ‘Bonjour’ ‘Hello’,
‘Au revoir’ Goodbye’ and ‘Merci’ ‘Thank you’.
Mobile Computing
If you travel with a laptop it is possible to connect up to the Internet
through the telephone sockets at most hotels.Geneva fast facts
| Lake Geneva | |
| Switzerland | |
| Europe | |
| Confederation | |
| 7,412,000 (2000 estimate, Source: United Nations Population Division, 1996) | |
| 438,819 (1994 estimate, Source: United Nations Population Division, 1995) | |
| Bern | |
| GMT +1 | |
| Predominantly German, with French, Italian and English also recognised | |
| Swiss Franc (CHF) = 100 rappen or centimes. | |
| Roman Catholic and Protestant |
Geneva Travel Tips and City Facts
Getting from the airport to town and exploring the city
Geneva’s airport, situated at Cointrin, is only a ten-minute ride
away from the city centre. Buses and trains operate between the airport and the city,
and several hotels run their own complimentary shuttle service.
Coaches run direct to the local ski resorts and car rental is also available.
Taxis can easily be hired and the journey to the city centre costs between 30 and 35 CHF.
The city itself is small enough to see on foot, but one can always make use of the excellent
public transport service.
GENEVA CITY GUIDE
Greeting someone in Geneva
As in most countries, the handshake is considered a standard greeting
even if you are meeting somebody
with whom you are already acquainted. It is
not customary to use Christian names unless you have already been addressed in this way.
Tipping advice
Tipping is expected, so tip according to your level of satisfaction.
A service charge is usually included on restaurant and hotel bills of about 15 percent.
Taxi drivers expect small tips, but be aware that they also include service charges when billing.
Geneva dress code
Casual but smart clothing outside of business is the norm,
with the possible exception of the more exclusive restaurants and hotels which may stipulate a
jacket and tie. For business meetings, both men and women wear suits.
Local Customs
Switzerland and its people have a reputation for being freethinking and tolerant.
The Swiss are friendly and welcoming, but place a high importance on punctuality.
It is important to remember that some businesses close for lunch and that all are closed on Sundays.