Geneva, Switzerland Report of what it's like to live there - 11/23/25
Personal Youth Experiences from Geneva, Switzerland
Background:
1. Where are you from and/or what other countries have you lived in?
I’m from Ecuador and I’ve lived in Ecuador and in Switzerland.
2. Which age range are you: (13-15 or 16+)?
13-15
3. How long have you lived in this city?
I came here because of my mom’s job and I’ve been here for 10 months.
Housing, Food, Pets:
1. What is your housing like (house or flat, in a compound, in city or suburbs, etc.)?
Flat in the suburbs.
2. How’s the food? Do you like the local dishes, and can you find other kinds easily?
I like the typical food from here but it is kind of hard to find good typical food from other countries.
3. Where do you usually eat out or order from? (favorite restaurants, delivery apps, or go-to takeout spots)
McDonald’s.
4. Do you have pets? If yes, what’s it like having a pet in this country—any unique pros or cons?
Yes. I have a cat and it is the same as having a cat in my country.
Daily Life:
1. Do young people get together outside home or school? If so, where do they usually hang out? (parks, playgrounds, malls, sports, outdoor stuff, etc.)
Yes, we usually hang out at Balexert (large local shopping center) or go to the park.
2. How’s the Wi-Fi/internet where you live? Super fast, just okay, or always cutting out?
It’s okay.
3. Is it important to know the local language?
Yes, it is.
4. Are there cultural expectations or rules about what you can wear, and if so, what are they?
No.
Transportation:
1. What are the main ways that you get around to school, to your friends' homes, or to other activities?
By bus.
2. How long does it normally take to get places? (school, friends’ houses, hangout spots) Does it change with traffic, weather, or holidays?
About 15 minutes. There’s more traffic on holidays.
3. At what age can you get a driver's license there? Are driving courses available?
At 18. I’m not sure about the driving courses.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. Can you find work if you want to (babysitting, dogwalking, local jobs?)
Yes.
2. Are there good volunteer opportunities, and is it easy to get involved?
Yes, it is, and it is good for communication and community.
Schools:
1. Do you go to a local school or an international school? What’s it like there?
I go to a local school and I think it is very good.
2. What kind of curriculum(s) does your school have? (American, British, IB, AP, etc.)
I’m not sure.
3. Does your school offer learning support or help for special needs?
Yes, a lot. When you have difficulties with any subject, you can go to an extra class where you can tell the teachers what you didn't understand in the main class and they'll help you.
4. How does your school welcome new students? (Any events, buddy systems, or cool programs?)
With buddy systems.
5. Is college counseling available at your school, and if so, are students finding it helpful?
Normally, if you have doubts or need advice, you can ask one of your teachers.
6. What sports and after-school activities are available? (Clubs, music, theater, etc.)
Clubs, music, theater, etc.
Expat Life:
1. Is this a good city for expat kids? Why or why not?
Yes, it's very good. In this city, more than half the population comes from other countries, so if you're a student and don't speak the language, there's a special class in local schools for those who don't speak the language, and you'll learn a lot there.
2. Have you noticed or experienced issues with prejudice (ethnic, racial, gender, religious)? How are LGBTQIA+ teens treated here?
None at all.
3. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Have you done so in school? Where else?
It's not very easy, since I think they're very used to receiving new students and no longer pay attention to them.
4. What fun things are there to do around here? Any cool spots, hidden gems, or trips you’d recommend?
There are many things you can sign up for: sports clubs, conservatories (music classes) etc.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this city/country before moving here?
I would have liked to know that the change in climate would affect me.
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Your maternal language, your family, your friends, your routine etc.
3. But don't forget your:
Personality and what makes you special.
4. Anything else you want to share? (tips, funny stories, random advice—whatever!)
Moving to a new place is so hard! Leaving your whole life behind to start over is the hardest thing I've ever done. When I first arrived, I was depressed. I hated being here, I missed my family, my friends, and my country (and I still do). It's true that time helps, but you'll never stop missing your home and your country.
