Bridging the Gap: Conference Workbook [International Conference on AIDS (12th: 1994: Geneva, Switzerland)]

Situated between the Alps and the Jura mountains, on the
shores of Lac Leman at the south-western extremity of
Switzerland, Geneva enjoys a temperate climate and
breathtaking scenery. On a clear day it is even possible to
catch a glimpse of the mighty Mont Blanc towering in the
distance. The simple but elegant silhouette of Geneva's 'Jet
d'eau', the impressive 140 m (460 ft) high lake fountain, is
the city's most distinctive landmark.
The Geneva area has only 400,000 inhabitants, making
it perhaps the smallest of the world's international centres.
However, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, its bustling
commercial districts and the charming narrow streets of its
old town, the city offers many faces to its visitors.

Accommodation and Transport
Palexpo-Hotels
A local transportation network has been organised for the
duration of the Conference. Further information is available at the Transportation Desk. Delegates who are accommodated in Geneva receive a TPG pass, valid on public
buses in Geneva. Those accommodated in Zones 2-4
receive a CFF train pass and those accommodated in
Zones 6-7 receive a ticket valid on a private bus. Further
information on transport services can be obtained at the
Transportation Desk in the registration area in Hall 4.
In and Around Town
Geneva's public transport system is excellent. Trams and
buses run every few minutes to the centre and the outskirts
of the city. In addition, an efficient boat service (the
'Mouettes') operates every ten minutes during the day
between the left and right banks. A ticket valid for the
central zones for one hour and usable on buses, trams and
the 'Mouettes' costs CHF 2.20. There are ticket dispensing
machines at bus and tram stops. Please note that exact
change is required. Cards of twelve tickets are available for
CHF 22 and should be punched at ticket dispensing
machines at the start of each journey. Trains run frequently
between the central station, Cornavin, and the airport,
and provide a fast and regular service to towns throughout
Switzerland and the rest of Europe. The smaller Gare des
Eaux-Vives operates routes into neighbouring France.
Business Hours
Banks
Banks are open Monday to Friday, 08.30-16.30, but are
closed on Saturdays (except UBS, which is located in the
arrivals area at the airport) and Sundays. At other times,
money can be changed at the Central Station (Cornavin)
and in most hotels.
Shopping
Most stores are open Monday to Friday 08.30-18.30
(Thursday 20.00), Saturday 08.30-17.00, and are closed
on Sundays.
Border-Crossing
Delegates based in accommodation across the nearby
French border should have their passport (and multiple
access visa where appropriate) ready for inspection at each
crossing.
Car Rental
All major car rental companies are represented at Geneva
Airport.
Climate
Situated at 375 m (1,227 ft) above sea level, Geneva
enjoys a climate falling somewhere between an East
European continental climate and a West European
temperate one. The average afternoon temperature in
Geneva in July is 25-30 C (80 F).

Credit Cards
American Express, Diners Club, Eurocard, Mastercard and
Visa are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops.

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