MEET OUR EXPAT OF THE MONTH
by Alexandra Osváth
Winter is fast approaching – find out where this month’s featured Expat likes to go cross-country skiing, relax in the city, and more.
Name: Ayda Dabiri
How long have you been in Geneva?
I’ve been in Geneva on-and-off since 2015, with time spent back home in Canada and in the UK.
Favourite restaurant?
I don’t have a favourite restaurant but a favourite dish at the moment is Umamido’s “Chef’s Special” ramen…or any restaurant’s homemade meringues and double crème.
Favourite outdoor thing to do?
There are so many outdoorsy things to do in or near Geneva, but last winter I really enjoyed cross-country skiing in La Vattay, France (under an hour from Geneva) and I’m looking forward to picking it up again once there’s enough snow.
Best secret place in Geneva?
On a boat (whether pedalo or motorized) in the middle of the lake.
Favourite Sunday morning thing to do in Geneva?
Sunday mornings in town are usually quite quiet so I like to sit outside in the Old Town for a coffee with a friend and then perhaps take a walk around the lake.
Something you love about Geneva?
It’s beautiful and very walkable. You can easily enjoy the city without a car but if you do take a car or train you can explore so many beautiful sights, including mountains (like the Alps, of course), lakes, and vineyards. On that note, I very much enjoy that we get all the seasons…beautiful summers to swim in the lake(s), crisp autumns and springs to go hiking, and snowy winters in the mountains for skiing and snowshoeing!
Another thing I love about Geneva is the people, whether locals or from around the world. I have met so many interesting and kind people with all sorts of backgrounds and careers.
Something funny you love about Switzerland?
As cliché as it is, the punctuality of the public transport is just plain impressive sometimes.
