Category Archives: Tips
Visit the European headquarters of UN at Geneva
Posted by in Fun, General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, News, Shopping, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Your trip to Geneva would be surely incomplete if you happen to miss out a visit to the European Headquarters of the United Nations. The Palais and its buildings constitute the second-largest building complex in Europe after Versailles.
The sprawling complex is accessible only via guided tour, offering unique insight into the inner workings of the world’s most important international body. You are sure to get impressed by witnessing its 2,000 seat Assembly Hall and the Council Chamber decorated with gold murals depicting the human struggle for peace.
The building popularly known as The Palace of Nations was built between 1929 and 1936 to serve as the headquarters of the League of Nations. Since 1946 it holds the pride of being the official home to the United Nations Office at Geneva after the Secretary General of the UN signed a Headquarters Agreement with the Swiss authorities, although Switzerland did not become a member of the UN until 2002.
The Palais stands at the Ariana Park, which has an interesting history attached to it. The park was donated to the Geneva Government in 1890 by Gustave de Revilliod de la Rive. In return, Gustave wanted three promises from the Government which the Government maintains to date:
- The park always remains accessible to the public.
- Gustave was buried in the park.
- The peacocks are allowed to roam freely on its grounds.
Beneath the Palais des Nations’s foundation stone is a time capsule containing a document listing the names of the League of Nations member states, a copy of the Covenant of the League, and specimen coins of all the countries represented at the league’s Tenth Assembly. A medal showing the Palais des Nations with the Jura Mountains in the background was struck in silvered bronze.The building overlooks Lake Geneva and has a clear view of the French Alps.
The building is open between 10:00 – 12:00, 14:00 – 16:00 Daily. 09:00 – 16:00 (July and August). Passport is required for admission.
The Rousseau island in Geneva
Posted by in Fun, General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Government, Guide, Hotels, News, Shopping, Tips
Leave a comment
|
The city of Geneva is dotted with various exotic tourist attractions each offering a unique face of nature. Among all these attractions, the Rousseau Island stands out due to its serenity offering a perfect romantic location. The island stands at the meeting point of the River Rhone and Lake Geneva. This small island was named after Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a Genevan philosopher and there is a statue of him on the island. The island is located near the right bank of Geneva’s shore and is connected to the des Bergues bridge and overlooks the Mont-Blanc bridge. It offers a 18th century style pavilion and an opportunity to dine at the little restaurant amidst the beauty of nature. The island is a heaven for those who are interested in sunning or relaxing.
Apart from the fascinating views of the city and lake which can be seen from the island, Rousseau Island also has a bird sanctuary, beautiful plants, trees and gardens.
However, looking at this beautiful island, one can never relate to this fact that it had a troubled past. But this is a truth. Surrounded by walls at the end of the 16th century, it served as a bastion to protect the city. In 1628 it became a shipyard and was known as the Island of the Boats. With the construction of the Bergues Bridge in 1832, which linked to the island by a footbridge, it was renamed after Genevan philosopher, Jean- Jacques Rousseau. It has since been transformed into a public garden, with a statue of this great man sculpted by the Genevan Pierre Pradier.
Parks And Gardens In Geneva
Posted by in Fun, General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Government, Guide, Hotels, News, Shopping, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Popularly known as the ‘City of Parks’, Geneva is a green city with one quarter of its area being covered with public parks which were earlier private properties later taken over by the Government. The location near the calm waters of the lake and the beauty of surrounding mountains add to the appeal of these parks. Here are some of the most popular parks of Geneva:
Parc La Grange
Quai Gustave Ador
This is Geneva’s largest park in area stretching to 12000 square meters along the lake. The park takes pride in owing the largest rose garden in the city and a horticultural center. Added attraction is the Verdure Theatre on site which hosts free concerts every Wednesday and Friday during the summer months.
English Garden
Quai Gustave-Ador
The park stands on the left bank near the Jet d’Eau. The garden is popular because of its flower clock, and many other famous statues like ‘Monument National,’ and a sculpted bronze fountain by Alexis Andre.
Eaux Vives Park
Quai Gustave Ador
This is a sloping hillside park which also happens to be the location of the headquarters of the Geneva Sports Association. It also has a restaurant at its top.
Bastions Park
Place Neuve
This place was the site of the first university in Geneva and is a popular hangout for students who love to go for a game at the set of life size chess boards at the north end of the park. The park is also known for the Reformation Wall built along the old rampart wall of the Old Town.
Batie Woods
Jonction
The park abounds in wildlife and has several hiking trails which are popular with joggers and hikers alike. A small zoo and several terrace restaurants are also located in the park.
Places to visit in Geneva
Posted by in Fun, General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, News, Shopping, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Geneva one of the most beautiful places on earth attracts a large number of tourists. As is obvious there are several places that must be visited in this city. This article aims to present a brief summary of the most important among them.
The most famous of these places is the spectacular lake of Geneva. Not only does it provide a pleasant sight for the eyes but it also offers a wide number of activities to keep the tourists entertained. Various landmarks are present on this lakefront which serves to enhance its attraction. Along the left and right banks of the lake are present the Promenades. These are filled with a wide range of cafes, parks, street markets and other diversions from lake cruises to amusement rides to water skiing. Protruding from the ground up to an astonishing height of 140 metres is the Jet d’eau. It symbolizes Geneva’s heritage as a leader in the field of hydraulic power. Likewise there are other structures on the eastern and western bank too. You can also find many good hotels for accommodation in this area.
The next major area that is a must visit is the old town of Geneva with its sloping cobblestone streets and alleyways. The pavements are filled with cafes, boutiques and historical landmarks at every turn. Its ancient feel is increased by the ever present old buildings. The Hotel De Ville located along Rue de l’Hotel-de-Ville was built in the 15th century and continues to fulfill its role as a seat of government in Geneva. It is also the site of many political milestones including the first convening of the Geneva Convention in 1864 and the founding of the League of Nations in 1920. The oldest public square, Bourg-de-Four is also present here. Filled with a wide range of bistros, terraces, bars and other popular meeting spots, it continues to attract tourists as well as locals. The south side has the Treille Promenade which features the towns last remaining rampart wall. Atop this wall you can see the entire city. The Old Arsenal, a former battery now features a mosaic by Alexandre Cingria depicting Caesar’s arrival in the city 58 BC.
A number of other places like the Reformation wall located in Bastions Park, Place Neuve featuring the Conservatory of Music, the Grand Opera Theater, the Rath Museum and also the Victory Concert Hall and the Schtrumpfs building which gave rise to the name of the famous cartoon character ‘smurfs’. There are several other places too.
Hotel geneve aeroport, La Réserve Genève Hotel & Spa
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Hotel geneve aeroport, La Réserve Genève Hotel & Spa
Overview of the Hotel: The hotel features indoor and outdoor pools, 3 restaurants, a daytime childcare center available free of charge at the hotel and a Bar-lounge with live DJs every night for the guests to sit back and relax. The hotel also offers Spa facilities that include a hammam, saunas, steam baths and a number of treatment rooms. Children under 14 years are not permitted into the spa. The gourmet restaurants offer delicious and finger-licking good meals that include Mediterranean and Chinese cuisine as well as other light dishes. Featuring hardwood floors and luxurious fabrics, the rooms at this hotel are air-conditioned and provide a luxurious stay.
Amenities at the Hotel: Facilities provided include Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Grounds, Terrace, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Safe, Soundproofed Rooms, Design Hotel, Baggage Storage, All Public and Private spaces non-smoking, Air Conditioning and Designated Smoking Area. Activities provided include Tennis Court, Sauna, Fitness Center, Golf Course (within 2 miles), Solarium, Spa & Health Club, Massage, Playground, Library, Hiking, Turkish/Steam Bath, Hammam, Indoor Swimming Pool, and Outdoor Swimming Pool. Services provided include Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Airport Shuttle, Babysitting/Child Services, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, and Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, Shoe Shine, Car Rental, Tour Desk, Fax/Photocopying, and Ticket Service. Wi-fi is available in the hotel rooms and costs CHF 25 per 24 hours. Free public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed). Private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs CHF 25 per day.
Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 15:00 hours and the Check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 3 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 3 years stay free of charge for cots. All older children or adults are charged CHF 120 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Carte Bleue, Diners Club, JCB, Debit card. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Superior Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 590
Suite
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 3200
Executive Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 750
Deluxe Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 1000
Accommodation Geneva, Ibis Genève Petit Lancy
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Accommodation Geneva, Ibis Genève Petit Lancy
Overview of the Hotel: The hotel provides its guests with a luxurious stay. It offers fine local cuisine in its Swiss bistro restaurant and also provides a 24-hour bar to unwind after a day of doing business or sightseeing. It is close to Geneva Airport and Geneva’s historic quarter. Its rooms are soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms and equipped with free Wi-Fi. The hotel also provides free use of public transportation in Geneva during your stay and you can even park your car right at the Ibis Petit Lancy.
Amenities at the Hotel: Facilities provided include Restaurant, bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Safe, Soundproofed Rooms, Heating, Baggage Storage, All Public and Private spaces non-smoking. Wi-fi is available in public areas and is free of charge. Public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs CHF 15 per day.
Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 12:00- 00:00 hours and the Check out time is until 06:00-12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 3 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. There is no capacity for extra beds in the room. Maximum capacity of babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, and Diners Club
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Standard Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
• FREE cancellation: CHF 176
Standard Twin Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
• FREE cancellation: CHF 152
Hotel Geneve Pas Cher, Hotel de Geneve
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Hotel Geneve Pas Cher, Hotel de Geneve
Overview of the Hotel: A retreat from the daily drudgery of life, this hotel provides its guests with various comforts like a complimentary breakfast buffet before one sets out for doing business or sightseeing in Geneva, quiet and double glazing rooms and tea and coffee available at the reception from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The hotel also provides Wireless internet access available in all rooms, an internet computer available free of charge at the reception and public parking (for a fee) available in the immediate vicinity of the Hotel. Located in the centre of the town the hotel provides easy access to the train station and the banks of Lake Geneva.
Amenities at the Hotel: Facilities provided include Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, and Elevator. Services provided here include Shoe Shine. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and costs CHF 5 per 30 minutes. Wired internet is available in public areas and is free of charge. Public parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is not possible) and charges are applicable.
Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 12:00-23:00 hours and the Check out time is until 08:00-11:30 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 10 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. All older children or adults are charged CHF 25 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Carte Bleue, JCB, and Maestro. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax, Buffet breakfast
• FREE cancellation
• Breakfast included: CHF 190
Single Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax), Buffet breakfast
• FREE cancellation
• Breakfast included: CHF 180
Geneva Airport Hotels, Starling Geneva Hotel
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Geneva Airport Hotels, Starling Geneva Hotel
Overview of the Hotel: The hotel offers free airport shuttle services, a wellness area, and free Wi-Fi in public areas as well as free access to the Starling Hotel’s spa and fitness area, which includes an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and 57 Technogym machines. It features rooms that are spacious, non-smoking and equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, free coffee and tea-making facilities, and high-speed internet access via optical fiber, minibars and comfortable armchairs. L’Olivo Restaurant provides the guests with a healthy lunch and dinner while breakfast is served at the Starling Café. Guests can choose from a wide range of drinks and finger food at the C-bar & Lounge. The hotel is close to the centre of the city as well as the Lake. It is situated next to the Palexpo Exhibition Centre and airport shuttle service is available in comfortable limousines every 15 minutes between 5:10 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. Geneva Airport is not far from the hotel.
Amenities at the Hotel: Facilities provided include Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Terrace, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Express Check-In/Check-Out, Safe, Soundproofed Rooms, Heating, Design Hotel, Baggage Storage, Ski Storage, All Public and Private spaces non-smoking, Air Conditioning, Restaurant With Dining Menu, Buffet-Style Restaurant. Activities provided include Sauna, Fitness Center, Solarium, Spa & Health Club, Massage, Jacuzzi, Turkish/Steam Bath, Hammam, Indoor Swimming Pool, and Indoor Swimming Pool (all year). Services provided include Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Airport Shuttle, Business Center, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Hair/Beauty Salon, Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, Souvenirs/Gift Shop, Shoe Shine, Car Rental, Fax/Photocopying, Concierge Service, Shuttle Service (free), Special Diet Meals (upon request), Suit Press. Wired internet is available in the hotel rooms and costs CHF 10 per hour. Wi-fi is available in public areas and is free of charge. Public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs CHF 25 per day.
Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 14:00-00:00 hours and the Check out time is until 07:00-12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 12 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. Maximum capacity of babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Pets are allowed. No extra charges. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, and JCB. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Standard Double or Twin Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 420
• FREE cancellation: CHF 580
Superior Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 630
• FREE cancellation: CHF 630
Premium Double Room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 459
• FREE cancellation: CHF 670
Hotel De La Paix Geneva
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Hotel De La Paix Geneva
Overview of the Hotel: The hotel lies at a premium location at the centre of the business district of Geneva and many of its tourist attractions. The Grand Rue, St-Peter’s Cathedral and the Old Town are closely located. The main train station, Gare de Cornavin is nearby making places an easy access. The restaurant at the hotel provides unostentatious French and Mediterranean cuisine. The bar offers fine cigars and an exclusive collection of liquors. There are a total of 84 rooms elegantly decorated. The attached bathrooms are beautifully made.
Amenities at the Hotel: The hotel has a Restaurant, bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Non-Smoking Rooms. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. Private parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is needed) and costs CHF 40 per day
Hotel Rules: The check in time for the hotel is from 15:00 hours and the check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 11 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. All older children or adults are charged CHF 100 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/baby cots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/MasterCard, Diners Club, Other. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Superior Double Room
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 616.25
• FREE cancellation: CHF 725
Superior Double Room with Lake View
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night
• FREE cancellation: CHF 925
• Breakfast included
Junior Suite
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night
• Non refundable: CHF 1126.25
• FREE cancellation: CHF 1325
• Breakfast included
Deluxe Double Room
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night
• Non refundable: CHF 828.75
• FREE cancellation: CHF 975
• Breakfast included: CHF 1029
Junior Suite with Lake View
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Not included in room price: CHF 4.25 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 1675
• Breakfast included
Eastwest Hotel Geneva
Posted by in General, Geneva Landmarks, Geneva Tour, Guide, Hotels, Tips
Leave a comment
|
Eastwest Hotel Geneva
Overview of the Hotel: The hotel is located at the central Geneva near the Cornavin train station. Lake Geneva is close by. Many restaurants, cafes and shopping centers are located Outside the Hotel. There are a total of 41 air-conditioned rooms equipped with personal heating, flat-screen Television, wireless internet access and a coffee machine. The attached bathrooms are beautiful and stylish.The restaurant offers authentic French cuisine and superfine creative dishes. The lobby bar keeps an exclusive stock of cocktails. Sauna and the fitness area of the hotel is an amazing key for relaxation.
Amenities at the Hotel: The hotel has a Restaurant, bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Terrace, Non-Smoking Rooms, Elevator, Safety Deposit Box, Soundproofed Rooms, Heating, Design Hotel, All Public and Private spaces non-smoking, Air-conditioning, Sauna, Library. Other services include Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, and Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Car Hire, and Fax/Photocopying. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. Private parking is possible on site (reservation is needed) and costs CHF 35 per day.
Hotel Rules: The check in time for the hotel is from 14:00 hours and the check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 6 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. All older children or adults are charged CHF 80 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/baby cots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed or baby cot is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Visa, Euro/MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, and Maestro. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.
Hotel Room Types and Rates:
Superior Double or Twin Room
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT
Not included in room price: CHF 3.60 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 412.25
• FREE cancellation: CHF 485
Single Room
Prices are per room.
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT
Not included in room price: CHF 3.60 city tax per person per night
• Non refundable: CHF 420
• FREE cancellation: CHF 420
Junior Suite
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT
Not included in room price: CHF 3.60 city tax per person per night.
• Non refundable: CHF 589
• FREE cancellation: CHF 628
Deluxe Double Room
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT
Not included in room price: CHF 3.60 city tax per person per night.
• FREE cancellation: CHF 535
Duplex Suite
Prices are per room
Included in room price: 3.80 % VAT
Not included in room price: CHF 3.60 city tax per person per night
• Non refundable: CHF 1266.50
• FREE cancellation: CHF 1691.50