EXPAT OF THE MONTH: SHE’S ALL ABOUT FOOD!
by Alexandra Osváth
Name: Nishanie Jayamaha
Where are you from, how long you’ve been in Geneva and what brought you here?
I’m Sri Lankan and I moved to Geneva with the UN. I’ve lived here for over 7 years and in between, I lived in New York for a year and returned to Geneva as I met my hubby when I moved here first. (Yes, you can find love in Geneva!)
What are you doing in Geneva now?
I work in the humanitarian sector at an NGO network and I’m the co-founder of Nik’s Fudo, a homemade food platform. Both are my passions – working with NGOs and civil society and I’m a foodie!
Favourite restaurant?
Little India on Rue du Prieuré. As a foodie (and a vegan since the beginning of this year), I’m always looking for vegan and flavourful food options. Their food is always delicious, spicy (when you ask for it) and I’m sure to find a vegan option that I will enjoy! We always take our friends who want to try North Indian food, and everyone has loved it so far.
Favourite outdoor thing to do?
Hiking – I’ve started doing more this year, especially with travel limitations due to COVID-19. Switzerland offers an amazing array of hikes, with gorgeous turquoise lakes and picture postcard panoramic views.
Best secret place in Geneva?
Oh so many! Jardin de la Paix – it’s a peaceful and hidden secret garden close to Parc de Trembley. I go there during lunchtime to get away from the hustle and bustle and to calm my mind.
Favourite Sunday morning thing to do in Geneva?
I’m not a morning person, but if I’m off for a hike, I will wake up super early and if not, I’ll be up for a delicious Sunday brunch! One of my favourite brunch places is Oh Martine! They have a yummy “Vege” toast (that is vegan) and good coffee which keeps me going back for more.
Something you love and/or hate about Geneva?
I love that Geneva is so cosmopolitan and that there is so much diversity in such a small place, even more so than New York or any other place I’ve visited. You can meet people from all walks of life, from around the world and get to learn more about their cultures and of course, their food! (I know, I’m all about the food.)
Something funny you love or hate about Switzerland?
Something I find funny is that the hot chocolate served in restaurants and cafés are mostly from a packet! Especially when there’s such good chocolate and chocolatiers in Switzerland. One place that I have found to have the best hot chocolate is Charlie Ganache in Passage des Lions. It’s made of proper dark chocolate, not the type that comes out from a packet. It’s indulgent and super luscious – a meal in itself!
