Europe Euphoria

Carouge is considered a very hip and chic place. It’s a laid-back town of Geneva, but a world apart in terms of architecture, ambiance and history. There are bustling streets and many shaded squares which invite one to stroll. The buildings and streets are adorable and down some of the main streets there are boutique after boutique where you can get everything from clothes to kitchenware. Trendy boutiques, antiques and curios dealers, restaurants and bistrots ensure a very warm and pleasant ambience. The delightful internal galleried gardens which lurk behind almost every gate are the major feature of Carouge. Getting there: From Geneva airport a direct coach or a six-minute train journey from Geneva city can get you to Carouge. Alternatively a 10-minute tram ride from the city center costing US$ 2.50 is thoroughly enjoyable. Lodging: Auberge Communale de Carouge offers doubles from about US$150 including breakfast. Hotel du Mont Blanc, from about $120 with breakfast. Dining and nightlife: There are many bars and eatiers, with fondue and other Swiss specialties available almost everywhere. Cafe des Amis is a traditional Carouge bistro, serving all the usual favourites and with occasional live music. Le Chat Noir is the best known venue, hosting regular live jazz concerts, and is surrounded by the best of the area’s nightlife, including two theatres and a cinema. Carouge is a perfect destination for artisans and fashionable young city dwellers. One visit to this Greenwich Village of Geneva will make you feel the difference.