3 opportunities to meet people and socialize in Geneva
We all hear the same old about Geneva: it is very hard to make new acquaintances, let alone find a mate. Well, if you feel that way, I have a couple of effective solutions for you: better opportunities to socialize, and to expand your social network in Geneva or anywhere in Switzerland. Just read on.
The key to meet socialize efficiently in Geneva and to meet people
One advantage of the city of Geneva is the large number of internationals and expatriates, who come and go. So, theorically, you should be able to meet more people in Geneva. But it seems like it is not the case.
Actually, I have noticed that the after work life is not that vibrant. We can see many people having drinks by the Bains de Paquis during the summer, but I can also witness awkward looks, and people afraid to mingle outside of the group they came with. So it looks like the problem is the fear to engage with strangers.
Personally, I am convinced that bars, pubs and clubs aren't the best place to meet people, whether it is for friendships or for relationships.
So how to break the ice ? because it is difficult to change a culture, groups were the "ice needs to be broken" to fulfill the purpose of the group are the answers. Said differently: in order to meet people, you need to join a group that meets these 3 criteria:
-interaction is key to the success of the group main goal or activity,
-the group meets on a regular basis,
-the group is constantly renewing its members, while maintaining a strong core group.
You probably now wonder about these groups. Let me give some solutions and examples of social groups you can join in Geneva to meet new people.
Geneva runners group: meet fit people from all over the world
The runners group has been created in 2008 and has members who joined then but are still present. Running is an activity that people practise all over the world. However, newcomers always join and leave the group, as they settle or leave Geneva. The Geneva Runners group meets 3 times a week to run within the city. There are different levels so you will definitely find a group that runs at your level. Sport is a great social activity to join because it serves several purposes: keep fit, meet new people and relax / socialize with them. That is actually the perfect cocktail.
After each running session, the group gathers for dinner or breakfast. The winddown time is ideal to start networking with other participants. There is a ton of running-related topics to explore: best apps, best shoes, latest marathons or triathlons, next races people will participate in, other sports people practice, etc. And if you are looking for a partner, this may be the time to make your move...
Social activity in Geneva : Improvisation theatre
Not everybody likes theatre, I totally get it. But if your goal is to make new acquaintances, you have to take every chance to socialize and make a bit of effort: this will result in you meeting new people. Once you will have established a good network of friends, you can just drop the social activities you don't really enjoy.
I picked improvisation theatre because that involves physical contact between people, something that is difficult in the European societies. It is an excellent exercise to stop feeling awkward in social or networking gatherings, which will make it easier to build friendships in Switzerland. There are many crews or theatre companies offering regular drop-in workshops in Geneva for free or for a small fee. By engaging in these, you will meet people from all walks of life, which eventually will lead to broaden your network of friends, or help you land the partner of your dreams.
Meetup groups: grow your social network in Geneva
Meetup IS the social network dedicated to making new contacts, new friends by gathering people around a common hobby or interest.
There are meetup groups for everything and anything you can think of. The flipside is that not all groups are very active, so do your investigation first.
There is a group called "Social Drinks" that is specialized in getting people together in Geneva city Centre, especially intended to accommodate those coming alone for the event. There is a fee of 10 CHF to access, and the event takes place from 7pm to 9.30pm. I am planning on testing that event and get back to you with my feedback.
Be regular, make socializing a weekly activity in your schedule
So I shared an important tip here regarding the kind of social groups that facilitates meeting new folks in Geneva, broadening your international network of friends, and opportunities to meet a partner. Back to you to put that into action. How ?
Well, it is important to socialize on a regular basis. Basically, the people I know who easily built a network actually went to every social event they heard of, and after a while they found buddies. I would recommend to have at least 2 activities in the week you participate in that gives the opportunity to meet new people. In other words: forget about a book club made of the only and same 10 women if you are a female looking for a male partner. It would not help achieve the desired goal.
So give it a go and post your comments.
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