Over the years Geneva has become as famous many larger cities; to
the extent that some believe it is the capital of Switzerland! (Bern,
of course, is the capital).
Of Geneva's 400,000 inhabitants, almost one-third are non-swiss,
making it a truly international city. Such cultural diversity has
not only made Geneva a very cosmopolitan city, but has also influenced
some of its most famous activities; watch-making and banking!
Historical streets, old buildings, museums and monuments all help
to recall Geneva's rich past. With over 40 museums, several concert
halls, over 20 theatres, about 30 cinemas and more than 100 private
art galleries, Geneva is spoilt for choice.
Outside the city limits, Geneva is the perfect gateway to European
skiing, with the northern Alps, the dge of the swiss Alps and even
Italy all within a few hours drive. Every standard of skier, throughout
the season, can be catered for by many mountain resorts. The slopes
of Chamonix, the Grand Massif, Les Aravis, the Three Valleys (Méribel,
Val Thorens, Courchevel) and the huge Tarentaise areas (Les Arcs,
Tignes and Val d'Isère) are all within easy reach.