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Situated in Switzerland, Geneva is one of the most global cities in the world. It is the worldwide centre for diplomacy and also holds one of the U.N.’s headquarters.

The Russian Orthodox Church in Geneva also called Eglise Russe is a sight to behold. Its architecture is typical of the 19^th century and its construction was financed by the Grand Duchess Anna Fyodorovna.

Grimm, a professor at the St-Petersburg Academy is responsible for its magnificent design. He was influenced by the Byzantine Moscovite style of architecture and this is evident in the church’s prominent gold coloured onion domes and the Byzantine-style striped arches that welcome one at the entrance.

A lot of fascinating objects are present in the interior, most of it having been donated by the Russian Royal family. A large number of iconic artifacts of the 19^th century can also be seen here.

All in all it is a place worth visiting for like any other church this too features a calm serene atmosphere which serves to carry one away from the rush of daily life.

The Jet d’Eau, an ordinary water fountain, is today the very symbol of Geneva. Any tourist, who visits this city, doesn’t fail to visit this giant water fountain. Located near Lake Geneva in the downtown area of the city, this fountain has become Geneva’s Eiffel tower!

Many would find it hard to believe that this beautiful structure was originally used to serve the menial purpose of a security valve at the Coulouvrenière hydraulic factory. Later it was transferred to Rade, where it was open to visitors. However even then it wasn’t turned into a fountain till as late as 1951.

Today it stands regally, with around 500 litres of water bursting forth from it and 9,000-watt projectors lighting it up in the evening. The fountain reaches upto heights as large as 140 metres and is a brilliant sight. In the evening the lights make it even more spectacular!

The structure is so large and perfectly situated that it is visible from almost all parts of the city, even when flying about 10 km above it! It has even become a part of the city’s logo. Thus, Jet d’Eau is one attraction you have to see whenever you visit Geneva.

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:

1. The park always remains accessible to the public.
2. Gustave was buried in the park.
3. 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 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.

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.

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 15^th 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

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