One of the best-known cultural centers of the world
is Geneva, the second largest city in Switzerland behind Zurich.
With its 40% of foreign population Geneva is a very cosmopolitan city
mixing different cultures. The predominant spoken language in Geneva is
French, but other languages - from English and German to Albanian and
Zimbabwean - are also used. Those who travel
Switzerland
and visit Geneva for the first time should know that its citizens like
to be addressed in French, even if these are several words like
greeting, after which you can speak the language you know better.
Founded about 4000 years ago, the city has a rich and impressive history.
It achieved its independence in 1530 and joined the Swiss confederation
in 1814. Due to the historical factors and cultural diversity Geneva
has always been noted for its tolerance and safety. Today in Geneva the
crime rate is very low (1,99 per 100,000) and the main complain of the
dwellers is... dog dropping.
Geneva is also the scientific centre where the World Wide Web was
invented. The city has a perfect reputation for its educational
institutions - it is very prestigious to obtain an academic degree in
Geneva.
This city can become paradise both for art
admirers and for lovers of boating, skiing and biking. Geneva's top ten
are headed by the Lake of Geneva famous for its Bains de Paquis and
relaxing boat cruise, the Old Town with its exquisite antique
boutiques, museums and the oldest house of the city - the Maison Tavel,
and the sculptures between the United Nations Building and Red Cross
Museum.
Besides that Geneva is a very hospitable city which will become the
most vivid recollection of your traveling.
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