Relaxing in Geneva
In Hermance, on the beautiful Lake Geneva.
We are in beautiful Geneva. We are breaking from our usual frenetic pace and enjoying Geneva as the locals do. Under the tutelage of our good friends, Geneva residents Eva and Bob, we are seeing some sites, relaxing, chatting, and enjoying views of the tranquil lake. A highlight for us was visiting the nearby country village of Hermance and enjoying some of the fabulous local perch prepared the typical Swiss way (with a butter sauce), at La Croix Federale.
Good company, blue skies, perfect temperature, harmony of the migrating songbirds and cold white wine combined to create a day of really special memories.
Posing with friends Eva and Bob, during our visit to Vielle Ville.
Along the way, we sampled delicious dried filet, luscious cheeses and Italian sesame bread sticks (better than they had a right to be). We visited the Vielle Ville (Old Town), stopping in the Cathédrale St. Pierre to see Jean Calvin’s famous chair, and then took the time to hang out in one of the area’s many small cafes. At the center is the Place du Bourg-de-Four, with the Palace of Justice on one side and the 15th century Hotel de Ville on another. In 1864, the Geneva Convention was signed in the Alabama room (named for the ship) on the first floor of the hotel.
We hit the famous spots: where the Red Cross was founded, the high-end shops cluster, and Palais des Nations. Geneva is a center of diplomacy, and hosts more than 250 international organizations. We quickly passed by the Jardin Anglais with its large floral clock (a spot no self-respecting Swiss would be caught).
And of course how could you not love the iconic Jet d’Eau, the 460’ tower of water on a jetty on the south bank of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). It’s the landmark you can see from everywhere.
One very interesting fact I learned is that even though we are in this lovely city in this neutral country, Geneva residents are required to have bomb shelters. The government backs this requirement up with financial support and inspects them annually. Who knew? Should we be worried . . .
This is a beautiful city, and we have loved our all-too-brief interlude here before we hit the rails tomorrow morning. Now to sleep.
In Old Town, Geneva.
Karen and Fred, One of my favorite cities, too. Have the very best omelettes in the world!! We just had our guest practice day then cocktail party at Judy’s. She, Wade and Katy sang Italian, British and French songs and made the party so special!! Missing you, but glad you are having such wonderful weather. It has rained nearly every day and night!! Expect more tmorrow so we will just slosh through our first day of the tournament. Bette