My Town
Geneva, Switzerland
Courtney Wilson at Rochers-de-Naye, a mountain that offers spectacular views of Lake Geneva as well as the Swiss and French Alps, located about a 90-minute drive from Geneva. Photos courtesy of Courtney.
Courtney Wilson completed a Bachelor of Management at UBC Okanagan in 2011. She now serves as Head of Digital, Content, and Movement Communications at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and has been living in Geneva for three years.
What three words best describe Geneva?
Pristine. International. Scenic.
How did you come to live in Geneva?
Work brought me here. In 2022, after working with the Canadian Red Cross for most of my career, I joined the ICRC. Founded by Swiss humanitarian Henry Dunant, the Red Cross is truly a part of the culture of Geneva—you see it and feel it everywhere. Every day I get to work with people from all over the world, which means I have the opportunity to learn and participate in a global network.
What do you like most about living there?
Wine, cheese, mountains, lakes—what’s not to love? I’ve been fortunate to see a fair bit of the world, and I can honestly say Geneva is still one of the most stunning places I’ve been. In many ways it reminds me of Canada, with its natural beauty and fresh air, but it’s also connected to all of Europe, which makes weekend adventures so easy. It’s clean, peaceful, and wonderfully international—you meet people from every corner of the world. For me, that’s really hard to beat. Oh, and then there’s the chocolate!
A view of the Jet d'Eau (Geneva's iconic fountain) and Lake Geneva from the MET Rooftop Lounge at Hôtel Métropole. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous view with a drink or a bite to eat, as the lounge serves cocktails, tapas, and more.
According to Courtney, Geneva’s markets offer an amazing selection of cheese. This photo was taken at La Halle de Rive, an indoor marketplace featuring a variety of local food products, from artisanal cheeses to charcuterie, baked goods, prepared dishes, and more.
Another lovely aspect of Geneva, notes Courtney, is that people can enjoy live music by the lake during the summer: "Symphonies play on these temporary docks that are put on the lake. Everyone sets up on the beach and listens to them play at sunset."
Describe your favourite neighbourhood.
Geneva has a neighbourhood for every mood. I live in Plainpalais, where you’re connected to everything—great restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and an amazing flea market that’s open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Eaux-Vives is another favourite, with its trendy shops, amazing food, lively bars, and quick stroll to Lake Geneva.
If you could change one thing about Geneva, what would it be?
The cost of living. Geneva is beautiful, but like most of Switzerland, it’s not cheap! If you’re visiting, there are a few tricks: the city gives you a free public transit pass when you stay at a hotel (or any other approved accommodation), many museums are free on the first Sunday of the month, and picnicking by the lake with some cheese and wine can rival any restaurant view. It’s still pricey, but definitely worth it!
What are your favourite hidden gems or activities that only locals know about?
Geneva has plenty of local treasures. For a smaller city, its restaurants definitely don’t disappoint (I’m currently making my way through a good portion of them myself). For wine lovers, La Cave des Poètes in Plainpalais is a favourite—Yann, the owner, always finds the perfect bottle. Buvette des Bains, the restaurant at Bains des Pâquis, isn’t exactly a secret, but its no-fuss fondue with a lake view is a must. Mare & Monti in the Old Town (la Vielle-Ville) is another amazing spot with great tapas and wine.
The city’s parks—picturesque Parc des Bastions, rose-filled Parc de la Grange, and lakeside Parc des Eaux-Vives—are perfect for a picnic and many have great little buvettes (refreshment stands) for a snack and drink. And don’t miss the Mouettes genevoises—little yellow boats that are part of the public transit system. They’ll take you across the lake from one neighbourhood to another with a beautiful view of the Jet d’Eau, the city’s iconic fountain, in the background.
Beyond the city, there are countless picture-perfect Swiss towns just a short train trip or car ride away—and in under an hour by train, you can be in Lavaux’s UNESCO-listed vineyards. Visit in May or June for Caves Ouvertes—it’s an amazing opportunity to enjoy locally made wine and explore dozens of wineries in the Geneva countryside.
What’s the most overrated tourist hotspot?
Geneva isn’t overrun with tourist traps, but the Flower Clock (l'Horloge Fleurie) has never really made sense to me. It’s free, by the lake, and worth a quick look if you’re passing by—but I wouldn’t plan my itinerary around it. There are far better ways to spend your time here (and none of them involve waiting for a flower to tell the time).
How easy is it to meet new people?
It depends. I’ve been lucky to meet wonderful people through work and via my partner—friends from all over the world, plus a few fellow Canadians who make me miss home a little less. Some say Switzerland can be tricky for making connections but Geneva’s international mix helps, and I’ve also been lucky enough to meet some wonderful Swiss people. With so many people here in the same situation, it’s entirely possible to build a great circle—it just takes a little effort and saying yes to opportunities.
What is one local custom that every visitor should know about?
A few things to know before you come: Most shops, grocery stores, and many restaurants close on Sundays—it’s a day for rest and time with loved ones. Noise rules are also strict in many neighbourhoods, so depending on where you stay (especially if you’re in an Airbnb or similar), it’s a good idea to be mindful of designated quiet times, so you don’t get complaints. And here’s another money-saving tip: Switzerland has some of the cleanest tap water in the world, so skip the bottled stuff and ask for a carafe d’eau (pitcher of water). I promise your wallet will thank you.
Because of Geneva's location, exploring other European locales is convenient, such as the popular ski resort of Megève (in France), where this photo was taken, located about 75 minutes away by car.
Rue du Marché at night. This is a popular shopping street in Geneva.
L’Escalade is Geneva’s most well-known historical festival that takes place annually in December.
It is a celebration of the city’s successful defence against a surprise attack in 1602, and features torchlit processions, historical re-enactments, and the beloved tradition of smashing a chocolate cauldron.
Courtney enjoying Caves Ouvertes, an annual event where local wineries open their cellars to the public for tastings and tours.
Geneva and the surrounding area offer an endless array of beautiful vistas.
This is a shot of the countryside outside Geneva, with a gorgeous field of sunflowers in the foreground, and Lake Geneva and the French Alps in the background.
Looking to connect with your UBC alumni community?
If you live outside our campus communities in the Lower Mainland and Central Okanagan, visit the Global Alumni Network page to see if there’s an alumni ambassador or social media community where you live.
Alumni volunteers also host fun My Town Meetups in locations around the world. Check out our Meetups page to see if there’s a gathering near you—or sign up to host one in your location!
